MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday reiterated his administration's commitment to build world-class connectivity by modernizing airports and upgrading infrastructure for regional development and economic progress. This, as the President marked Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) 85-year legacy of world-class service by leading the unveiling of its new Airbus A350-1000, a key step in the airline's fleet modernization and expansion. “This Administration remains committed to upgrading infrastructure, modernizing airports, enhancing connectivity, and boosting the economy,” Marcos said during the celebration of PAL's 85th anniversary at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. The President urged private partners to continue working with the government to build on aviation-centered initiatives that would sharpen the Philippines’ competitiveness and expand opportunities for Filipinos. He cited ongoing government efforts together with private sector partners to improve air travel in major destinations and boost development in the region and the economy. These include a Modular Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) being constructed in the Siargao Airport and a new International PTB in Davao International Airport. Through partnership with the private sector, Marcos said the government has also started upgrading and expanding the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental and the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. At the Caticlan Airport, a new terminal is underway to better serve both local travelers and tourists, the President said. “Equally significant is our collaboration under a public-private framework to modernize, operate, and maintain the Manila Airport,” he said, noting the new facilities and immigration eGates that make travel faster, safer, and more efficient. “These are our investments in mobility, in opportunity, and in national progress,” the President added. In the same speech, Marcos recognized PAL's legacy built on resilience, service, and dedication to connecting Filipinos with the world. He said that PAL has remained a steady presence in the country’s national story through changing times and growing challenges. PAL is Asia's first commercial airline. It owns the distinction of being the first Asian airline to cross the Pacific Ocean (1946) and fly to Europe (1947). The addition to the PAL fleet of the Airbus A350-1000, one of the most modern widebody aircraft designed for long-haul travel, underscores the importance of keeping pace with a rapidly evolving aviation industry, the President continued. “Taken together, these milestones point us firmly towards the future. They strengthen our aviation sector, expand connectivity, and open doors to trade, tourism, and investment,” Marcos said. “In doing so, we reaffirm aviation’s role as a powerful engine of economic growth and of national development," he added. The President said since its founding in 1941, the country’s only full-service four-star airline has consistently provided dependable, high-quality service to both Filipino and international travelers. He said the flag carrier has also helped showcase the Philippines’ natural beauty and cultural richness, and more importantly, carried with it the Filipino warmth and hospitality. The Chief Executive also described PAL’s newly released safety video as engaging, creative, and distinctly Filipino for showcasing the beauty of the country’s landscapes, while weaving in the familiar intrigue and drama of a Filipino telenovela. Marcos presided over the unveiling of PAL’s Airbus A350-1000, whose new-generation design and materials bring up to 25 percent reduction in fuel burn—thereby lowering operating costs while significantly cutting carbon emissions. PAL’s first Airbus A350-1000, which is also the first in Southeast Asia and the tenth worldwide, opens new possibilities for long-distance travel, including routes to North America, the President said. “This step complements our efforts to modernize the aviation sector and embrace more sustainable practices for the future,” he added.