A HIGH-FLYING JOURNEY
The new, sprawling contemporary head office of AIRASIA PHILIPPINES marks the continuous growth of the company
With almost a decade of quality service to the Filipinos, AirAsia Philippines has entered a new milestone. Following the acquisition of the majority of shares, House Deputy Speaker Representative Mikee Romero and AirAsia Philippines Vice Chair Sheila Romero were proud to unveil the opening of AirAsia Philippines’ new office. The low-cost airline’s sprawling headquarters at Ninoy Aquino International Airport features a contemporary open-plan design. To celebrate the important occasion, Mikee and Sheila invited friends and honored guests like the Department of Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat,
esteemed news anchor Korina Sanchez-Roxas, and PG&A First Vice Chairman Peter Coyiuto. The Romeros were grateful to everyone who continues to support them in the company’s endeavors. What followed during the traditional sit-down dinner was a night of stirring conversations, entertainment, and celebration of a growing legacy.
A NEW JOURNEY
This year, Skytrax once again awarded AirAsia as the World’s Best Low-cost Airline Carrier for 11 consecutive years. It follows Mikee Romero’s recent acquisition of the major ownership of AirAsia Philippines. Through
F&S Holdings, he bought a 15.6 percent stake of Tonyboy Cojuangco in AirAsia. It raises the total stake of the Romero Group to 60 percent, turning F&S Holdings the single largest shareholder in the low-cost carrier.
AirAsia Bhd founders Tony Fernandez and Datuk Karmarudin Menarum remain as owners of the remaining 40 percent in shares. Mikee shares in an interview, “[This business] has a very solid foundation, especially now that revenues are hitting P30 billion, so it’s a no brainer.” In spite of tough competition among local rivals like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines, the Romeros are confident of this long-term investment.
A LIVELY CELEBRATION
AirAsia Philippines celebrated the flourishing growth of the company by highlighting the rich culture of the country. Upon entering its new headquarters in NAIA, the AirAsia crew warmly welcomed the guests accompanied by lively music. Situated at a corner was a booth where anyone can have their photos taken wearing MassKara Festival masks. The upbeat traditional drumming of performers beside the booth exudes a festive atmosphere, seemingly taking the guests to the exhilarating festivals we have across the country.
Before the program began, some strolled around the new office called RedPoint, exploring the contemporary features. There are creative lounges, collaborating zones, and meeting rooms themed according to the four seasons. There are also hammocks and wooden swings by the entrance as a way to allow employees to take a break at work and have a little bit of fun. RedPoint features an open plan design to foster open communication and innovation. It makes sense, as AirAsia aims to become more than the
best low-cost airline. The Romero group envisions the company to prioritize excellent service to its clients while caring for the total wellbeing of its crew, a testament to Airasia’s core values.
TOASTING TO A MILESTONE
The opening of the inauguration witnessed the ribbon-cutting of the event’s highly-important guests like the Department of Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat, Department of Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade,
AirAsia Group Berhad Executive Chairman
Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, AirAsia Philippines Chairman of the Board Atty Jomar Castillo, AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla, together with Mikee and Sheila Romero.
Over dinner, Sheila shared how 2019 is their banner year. In her speech, she explained how AirAsia Philippines grew revenues by 39% compared to last year. They have achieved a remarkable feat as
a carrier providing quality service and excellence. Sheila was proud to announce the company would have served 10 million passengers and P29 billion in revenues by the end of the year, a record high for them. This continuous growth is their driving force to work hard and promise more flight frequencies and thrilling destinations like Honolulu. “Our aim is to provide affordable fares for all Filipinos so everyone can fly,” Sheila says.
After Mikee and Sheila shared a few words about the company’s accomplishments and future plans, guests indulged in the delectable spread that includes Braised and Grilled Beef Boneless Bulgogi capped with Bacolod Napoleones and Japanese Cheesecake for dessert options. While engaging in pleasant conversations, Nicole Asensio and Kris Lawrence performed. The singers’ soothing voices had everyone swaying to the music. After dinner, some even danced when the songs turned upbeat, uplifting the energy in the room. The night was a pure delightful celebration, marking the continuous growth of AirAsia Philippines under the good leadership of the
Romero group.