by Klaus Doring
I think I was at the age of 11 when my first trip “abroad” took me to Holland or “The Netherlands.” Later, I joined several journeys with German Foreign Aid, International YMCA and other institutions. For the first time, in 1976, I stepped on Philippine soil – just for two days, before heading to Japan. Of course, I flew with Philippine Airlines.
Since experiencing several negativism with ‘other airlines’ during the last two years, I keep on flying with flag carrier Philippine Airlines. PAL soars on its 70th year and, for example, Mabuhay Miles celebrates its 8th year with the Great Miles away. I gladly observed, that the airline has lowered the redemption values on selected PAL international and domestic destinations. I also enjoy treats while taking my pleasure in the comfort and luxury at selected Shangri-La and Traders hotels in Hong Kong or Singapore.
Now, it is reported that the airline continues to lose money. The “good news” is that it has slowed down its losses to US$14.3 million.
In its report to Securities and Exchange Commission, PAL said weak passenger demand mainly in its international operations, pulled down revenues to US$1.36 billion.
Worldwide capacity cuts during the year did not keep pace with declining traffic demand, thus exerting significant pressure in pushing down fares and yields, the airline says. But the company assures stockholders and the public that it continues to look for ways of improving its financial condition and results of operations. It has lined up and implemented various revenue enhancement programs, cash generation strategies and cost control initiatives. However, the company is still a long way from sustainable profitability.
I miss the non-stop Manila-Frankfurt flights PAL had before.
+++
Up, up and away? The fee paid for an electronic passport in the Philippines is indeed one of the lowest in the world. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs charges a passport fee of more or less 1,000 Pesos = 21 US$. Thailand, for example, charges 33 US$, Brunei 37 US$, Malaysia 97 US$, Cambodia (!) 120 US$ and Japan 180 US$!!!
Tip: Overseas Filipino Workers may avail themselves of the lower passport fee by applying in the Philippines. Good idea!
+++
German Education Minister Schavan was joined by business leaders in calling for more skilled immigrants to boost Germany’s economy. Schavan also praised a group of migrants she called Germany’s “Turkish Elite”! I strongly agree after living in Berlin for more then 25 years together with a lot of Turkish Moslem friends and business people.
Email me, if you wish: doringklaus@gmail.com or visit one of my several websites, www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or follow me in FACEBOOK.
