Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific celebrated World Children’s Day by conducting an airport familiarisation tour at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)’s Terminal 3.

Participants were children who are either on the autism spectrum or were born with Down Syndrome, as well as their guardians.

Organised together with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI), the event gave participants a hands-on experience of the preflight process. 

Together with their guardians, the ten participants were guided through check-in, security screening, and boarding to familiarise them with the journey.

A more inclusive experience

According to Cebu Pacific chief marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog: “Cebu Pacific is committed to breaking travel barriers and fostering inclusivity by creating a more supportive and predictable environment for individuals with autism and Down syndrome.”

Iyog added that the preflight airport tour aims to ease anxiety, build confidence, and prepare them for what to expect during air travel. 

She said: “Inclusivity for us is more than a value: it’s a commitment that drives how we innovate and serve our passengers. By offering children the chance to experience the airport process in a safe and supportive setting, we are empowering every Juan and reaffirming our mission to make air travel accessible to all.”

A vital partnership

At the same time, Cebu Pacific also formalised its partnership with ASP through the signing of a memorandum of agreement.

The partnership aims to promote awareness and acceptance of people on the autism spectrum within the travel and tourism sectors.

ASP chairperson emeritus Dang Koe said: “We are thrilled to partner with Cebu Pacific in championing inclusivity. While autism awareness has grown significantly, there is still work to be done. We seek acceptance, appreciation, and accommodation for people on the spectrum. Cebu Pacific’s support of Autism-OK Philippines is a step toward creating a more inclusive community.”

Today, Cebu Pacific remains steadfast in its commitment to making air travel a welcoming experience for all, taking steps to promote inclusivity and acceptance in air travel.