In a significant development for bilateral relations and migrant worker welfare, the Philippines and Israel are accelerating efforts to establish a direct flight corridor between Manila and Tel Aviv before the end of the year. The breakthrough initiative, confirmed by the Philippine Department of Transportation (DOTr), aims to bridge the two nations directly for the first time.
Acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez has publicly committed to prioritizing the project, emphasizing his department’s “firm dedication to implementing the direct route within the calendar year.” Lopez confirmed he will lead coordination efforts with Philippine Ambassador to Israel Aileen Mendiola, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant government agencies to expedite the process.
The aviation link gained momentum following serious interest expressed by Arkia Airline, Israel’s second-largest carrier. Secretary Lopez revealed that preliminary discussions have already occurred with airline representatives alongside Ambassador Mendiola. While acknowledging standard regulatory procedures that typically require approximately six months to finalize, officials remain optimistic about the timeline.
The initiative carries substantial socioeconomic importance for an estimated 30,000 Filipino workers employed in Israel across critical sectors including caregiving, agriculture, hospitality, and manufacturing. These overseas workers currently endure lengthy layovers—often exceeding six hours—through transit hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi when traveling between their workplace and homeland.
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh has welcomed the aviation proposal, noting growing enthusiasm among Israeli travelers to experience the Philippines’ premier tourism destinations. The direct connection is expected to stimulate tourism exchange alongside providing immediate relief to the migrant worker community.
The Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) recognizes the transformative potential of direct flights for worker welfare, particularly for caregivers like Aiza Villaluna who described the current transit process as exhausting. “It would be a big relief for us if there were a direct flight,” she stated, echoing sentiments shared by thousands of her compatriots.