The Philippines and Malaysia have concluded a two-day bilateral negotiation aimed at strengthening aviation cooperation and modernizing their decades-old air services agreement.
Officials from both countries met in Putrajaya, Malaysia from March 4 to 5 to update the 1978 Air Services Agreement, aligning it with current developments in the aviation and travel industry.
The talks resulted in an updated framework that recognizes airlines based on their principal place of business rather than traditional ownership rules, a move consistent with provisions under the Public Service Act.
Authorities said the change will allow more airlines to operate routes between the Philippines and Malaysia, potentially increasing competition and giving travelers more options and competitive fares.
The agreement also expands opportunities for commercial cooperation between carriers, including joint ventures and code sharing arrangements that could improve connectivity between the two countries.
Officials said the renewed aviation partnership is expected to support tourism growth and strengthen economic links while enhancing people-to-people exchanges.
The Philippine delegation was led by DOTr Usec. Jim Sydiongco, with representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and the Civil Aeronautics Board also taking part in the negotiations.
Aviation officials said the modernization of bilateral air agreements is part of broader efforts to improve the country’s competitiveness in the global aviation sector under the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez.