CebPac exec apologizes for pilot's FB post vs VP Leni

CLARK FREEPORT --- An official of Cebu Pacific Air has apologized for the Facebook post of a pilot stating that Vice President Leni Robredo asked for priority landing at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for a flight she was on.

Captain Sam Avila, VPFlight Operations of Cebu Pacific Air, relayed his apology at the airline's official social media page.

He said the pilot admitted that his claim which was posted on his personal social media account has no basis.

"Since becoming aware of the social media post by one of our pilots in reference to a flight of Vice President Leni Robredo, I confirm that the pilot has made it clear to us that he had no basis for his claim and was purely speculative and careless on his part," Avila added.

"While the pilot posted his commentary on his own accord, a post he has since removed, on behalf of Cebu Pacific, and as Head of our Pilot Group, I take command responsibility and apologize unreservedly to the vice president and the general public for the actions of our pilot," the Cebu Pacific Air claimed.

As professional aviators and free citizens of the country, Avila said they are free to express opinions, but also expected to carry out roles and duties with utmost discernment and caution.

Cebu Pacific has very strict social media policies covering all of its employees and such a post should not have been published, according to the airline's executive.

"This is recognized by the said pilot himself. He is currently under disciplinary review in accordance with our Company rules and standards," he said.

The Office of the Vice President (OVP) categorically denied the false story being circulated in social media.

The OVP said this never happened and is a malicious fabrication.

Robredo's camp said that VP Leni has never asked to be prioritized for taking off or landing when traveling by air during her entire tenure as vice president.

The OVP said it is alarming that almost a week after the elections, the disinformation and fake news being spread on social media against VP Leni continue unabated. "Lying, unfortunately, has become a full-blown industry on social media."

Robredo reiterated her commitment to take firm steps against disinformation and promote truthful public discou r se.