Ready for duty: AirAsia Philippines welcomes new batch of Air Force Reservists
New Allstar PAF Reservists, including John Christopher Y. Elizon (Head of Quality Management), John Brandon C. Bunag (Cabin Crew), Katherine E. Santonia (Executive - Culture), Angelica S. Gabriel (Cabin Crew & A-Team Member), Kathelene Zenas T. Padilla, M.D. (Occupational Health Physician/Longevity Physician), Maria Estrella B. Panganiban, R.N. (Healthcare Nurse), Jessie Kid P. Tan (Head of ICT), Reginald G. Mendoza (Cabin Crew), and Frederick F. Macapagal (Asst. Manager - Operational Quality Assurance), attended the graduation ceremony at the Philippine Air Force Gym, Villamor Air Force Base, in Pasay City.
Manila, 17 May 2024 - A new set of nine Allstars was officially inducted as reservists of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) after completing the Basic Citizen Military Training. This marks the 5th batch of AirAsia Philippines personnel to finish the program, solidifying the partnership with the PAF and commitment to supporting community service. AirAsia has been affiliated with the PAF as a 1st Airlift Wing Reserve unit since 2019.
Culture of readiness
“The dedication of our Allstar reservists to community service is deeply rooted in AirAsia Philippines’ commitment to readiness in responding to national crises, emergencies, rescue operations, humanitarian efforts, and medical missions. We have always cultivated a culture of readiness through CSR programs like alwaysREADY: anytime, anywhere, aiming to support disaster relief efforts in communities regardless of time and location,” AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla shared.
To date, AirAsia has 65 reservists, supporting community service through the 1st Airlift Wing, earning recognition as the Best Reserve Unit nationwide by the PAF. Oftentimes, Allstar reservists were also tapped to augment government relief efforts to typhoon stricken areas in far-flung provinces.
Dedicated Allstars
Throughout their journey, Allstars reservists underwent a 30-day Basic Citizen’s Military Training with eight weeks of theoretical learning coupled with three days of field training.
AirAsia Philippines Wing Commander, 1st Airlift Wing Reserve LTCOL Gomer Monreal, expressed his pride, saying, “In a testament to our commitment to national service, we proudly welcome the newest Allstar reservists now part of the esteemed PAF - Air Force Reserve Center.”
This initiative has been especially meaningful for AirAsia Allstars like ICT Head Jessie Kid Tan, the only Marksmanship Awardee among the whole class, who shared, “I’m honored to be part of this opportunity as it allows me to express my love for the country, while also developing valuable skills in leadership and teamwork. All these I apply in my line of work in AirAsia.”
Allstar Air Force Reservists also have the option to undergo Professional Military Education or PME courses should they seek promotion or active positions in the service.
AirAsia has been actively supporting uniformed personnel by providing specialized discounts and promo offering to all uniformed personnel.
These initiatives are more than just an expression of gratitude to the selfless service of uniformed personnel. They signify the airline's commitment to honoring their dedication and love for their country.