Insider Spotlight
Speaking during the graduation ceremony on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Airworks president Vincent Charles Ong said the milestone reflected years of support from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), Cebu Pacific, and the families behind the cadets.
Ong credited CAAP for allowing Airworks students to take licensing examinations in Cebu instead of traveling to Manila, describing the move as a historic step that eased the burden on aspiring pilots and their families.
The big picture
Ong also thanked MCIAA for backing aviation education beyond airport operations, citing the airport authority's support through hangar space allocation and financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic and periods of elevated fuel costs.
He said MCIAA's investments in airport expansion, including the second runway and the development of Camotes and Bantayan airports, demonstrate a commitment to building a broader aviation ecosystem that supports airlines, flight schools, mechanics, engineers, and other aviation professionals.
Ong likewise acknowledged Cebu Pacific for launching its cadet pilot training program in the Philippines — which has now produced 56 graduates over three batches — and sustaining the initiative despite industry pressures, saying the program creates opportunities across the aviation value chain.
"There is no such thing as a self-made pilot. Every pilot stands on the shoulders of the instructors, mechanics, and people who came before them," he said.
Why it matters
Addressing the graduates, Ong reminded the new pilots that their profession extends beyond operating aircraft.
"From this day forward, every time you fly, you will carry the dreams of millions of Filipinos with you," Ong said, noting that pilots help connect students, overseas Filipinos, entrepreneurs, workers, and families across the country.
He added: "You are not simply flying airplanes. You are helping move the Philippines forward."
Cebu Pacific vice president Captain Sam Avila echoed the industry's resilience, saying aviation continues to face significant challenges, including higher fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions. However, he noted that the airline has consistently emerged stronger from previous crises, with a larger fleet and pilot roster than before the pandemic as it prepares for an expected market recovery.
Meanwhile, MCIAA general manager Julius Neri reaffirmed the airport authority's commitment to expanding Cebu's aviation ecosystem by supporting airlines, flying schools, maintenance providers, and other stakeholders. He also encouraged the graduates to remember where their careers began, telling them that Cebu will always be proud of them and remain their home as they pursue aviation careers around the world.
CAAP deputy director general Rozano Briguez expressed his full support for the program, and encouraged the cadets to be ready for the responsibility of the job, and show to the world that Filipino pilots are among the very best.
— Edited by Daxim L. Lucas
