Holy Week Travel Reminder: Updated Airline Policy on Power Banks & Safety Tips for Filipino Travelers

As the Lenten season approaches, many Filipinos are preparing to travel—whether to reconnect with family, go on a pilgrimage, or take a quiet retreat. With the expected surge in airport traffic this Holy Week, it's important to review updated travel policies, especially concerning power banks and lithium batteries.

To help ensure a smooth and safe journey, here is a comprehensive guide based on the latest regulations from Philippine airlines and aviation authorities.

Updated Airline Policy on Power Banks (Philippines, 2025)

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), in line with international aviation standards, has reiterated guidelines regarding the transport and use of power banks on flights.

Allowed Wattage Limits:

Power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh (Watt-hours) are allowed in carry-on luggage without any special approval.

Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh may be accepted with prior airline approval.

Power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited and must not be brought on board.

To determine the watt-hour rating of your power bank, use this formula:

Watt-hours (Wh) = (mAh × Voltage) ÷ 1000

Example: A 20,000mAh power bank at 3.7V = 74Wh (within the allowed limit)

Always check the label on your device. Most power banks will display both mAh and voltage values.

References:

Philippine Airlines Baggage Guidelines – Batteries & Electronics

CAAP Safety Advisory on Lithium Batteries

Power Bank Usage During Flight is Not Allowed

Even if your power bank falls within the permitted capacity, airlines prohibit the use of power banks to charge devices during the flight.

This restriction is in place to prevent potential overheating, short circuits, or fire hazards. Once inside the aircraft, passengers are required to:

Switch off their power banks

Avoid using them to charge devices

Keep them securely stored in their hand-carry bags

References:

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Guidelines

Cebu Pacific: Prohibited and Restricted Items

Holy Week Travel Reminders for Domestic and International Flights

Never check in power banks—they must be carried in your hand luggage.

Avoid bringing high-capacity power banks unless you're sure of their wattage.

Charge all your devices before your flight, since mid-air charging is not allowed.

Arrive at the airport early to allow time for security checks, especially during the Holy Week rush.

Check your airline’s website for any additional or updated policies before your trip.

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A Time to Reflect and Disconnect

Beyond the logistics, Holy Week is a time for pause and reflection. While staying connected digitally is helpful, consider taking this opportunity to disconnect briefly and be fully present in your travels and in the moments shared with others.

Let this Lenten season be not just a journey across miles, but a time to reset your pace, realign your focus, and return renewed.

Cebu Pacific Reassigns Palawan, Masbate, and Siargao Flights from Manila, Philippines to Clark: What Travelers Need to Know

Manila, Philippines

January 30, 2025

Travelers heading to Palawan, Masbate, and Siargao with Cebu Pacific will soon have a different airport to fly from. In a move to decongest Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and optimize flight operations, Cebu Pacific is relocating its Palawan-bound, Masbate-bound, and Siargao-bound flights from Manila, Philippines to Clark International Airport (CRK) starting March 30, 2025.

This change is part of a broader strategy to shift turboprop operations out of NAIA, following a recent resolution from the Manila Slot Coordination Committee. The shift will affect flights to El Nido, Coron (Busuanga), Masbate, and Siargao, among others, allowing NAIA to allocate more slots for larger jet aircraft.

Why the Change?

NAIA has long been facing congestion issues, with increasing air traffic leading to flight delays and operational challenges. By transferring turboprop flights to Clark, Cebu Pacific aims to:

• Ease congestion at NAIA and improve airport efficiency.

• Enhance travel experience by reducing delays caused by traffic buildup.

• Maximize flight slots for jet aircraft at Manila’s primary gateway.

This move is not just limited to Palawan flights. Other domestic routes, such as Siargao and Masbate, will also see a shift from Manila to Clark under this new setup.

How Does This Affect Passengers?

For travelers used to flying out of NAIA, this reassignment may require a bit of adjustment, particularly in terms of travel time to the airport. However, Clark International Airport is becoming a strong alternative hub, offering modern facilities, shorter queues, and an improved passenger experience.

Cebu Pacific has assured passengers that those affected by the transfer will be given options, including:

• Rebooking flights at no additional cost if they prefer to adjust their travel plans.

• Full refunds for those who no longer wish to travel.

• Options to reroute through Manila if applicable.

Is Flying from Clark a Good Alternative?

While some travelers might find Clark a bit farther than NAIA, it does come with benefits:

• Less crowded terminals compared to Manila.

• Modernized facilities and a more relaxed airport experience.

• Convenient transport options, including point-to-point (P2P) buses from Metro Manila to Clark.

With ongoing infrastructure improvements and growing airline operations, Clark is shaping up to be a more viable gateway for domestic and international travelers.

Final Thoughts

The reassignment of Cebu Pacific’s Palawan, Masbate, and Siargao flights from Manila, Philippines to Clark is a major shift aimed at improving airport efficiency and overall passenger experience. While it may take time for some travelers to adjust, this move is expected to ease congestion at NAIA and create better flight management for both local and international routes.

For those planning trips to El Nido, Coron, Masbate, Siargao, or other destinations, now’s the time to check your flights and make necessary adjustments. Keep an eye out for Cebu Pacific’s announcements regarding this transition, and if you’re affected, take advantage of the available rebooking or refund options.

Book Smart and Save on Travel

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What do you think of Cebu Pacific’s airport reassignment? Let me know in the comments! Safe travels!