Cebu Pacific drops astonishingly cheap flights to the Philippines

Cebu Pacific is celebrating its 29th birthday with a month-long sale featuring super cheap fares from Sydney and Melbourne to the Philippines. 

Lusting after palm fringed beaches and shimmering emerald lagoons? Good news: Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading airline, is slinging cheap airfares at Aussies like they're going out of fashion.

The sale will run for the month of March, with fares starting from as low as $199 from Melbourne and $209 from Sydney.

BOOK SALE FARES HERE

The initiative celebrates the airline's 29th birthday and coincides with the Philippines being recognised as one of the fastest-growing destinations for Aussies. 

The number of visitors to the Philippines surged from 112,500 in 2022 to 233,170 in 2023 with the figure expected to hit 250,000 for 2024 (when the numbers are next released).

“With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and amazing value for money, the Philippines is soaring in popularity as a destination of choice for Australians seeking an affordable, yet unforgettable, holiday,” said a spokesperson for Cebu Pacific. 

The Philippines is a stunning island hopping destination

Cebu Pacific prides itself on their year round low cost airfares, the spokesperson added, explaining that the airline's new hub strategy means passengers can easily connect from Manila to 29 other destinations across the archipelago. 

For those looking to get in on the action, the sale fares on offer are for travel from March anytime through to February 2026.

See also: Cebu Pacific flight review: What the direct flights from Australia to Manila, Philippines are really like

What's the best time of year to visit the Philippines?

The Philippines has two main season: dry season from December to May, and the rainy season from June to November. Most people recommend you visit from December to February to maximise your chance of scoring perfect weather (though you can visit year round). For surfers, generally the best months to visit the Philippines are from August to November (this is when you have the best chance of scoring a good swell).

Best things to do in the Philippines

There's more things to do in the Philippines than you can throw a kayak paddle at

The Philippines has been hyped up as an excellent alternative to Bali for Aussies in recent years. Some of its most popular activities include white water rafting in Cagayan de Oro, cruising the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, snorkelling in Davao's Island Garden City of Samal and surfing in Siargao. There is also world-renowned shipwreck diving in Coron and El Nido (you can fly direct to both these places).

See also: The Philippines island you’ve been overlooking

How does the Philippines compare to Bali?

Escape Associate Digital Editor Simone Mitchell, who has visited both Bali and the Philippines, recommends the Philippines for adventure and Bali for convenience and relaxation. 

She says the Philippines is great for island hopping and snorkelling, and recommends it to those looking to visit somewhere a bit rough and ready (read: less touristy).

However, she didn't love the food, found Manila a bit full on, and suggests those looking for a strong foodie scene, and ease of getting around might prefer Bali.

BOOK SALE FARES HERE

Originally published as Cebu Pacific drops astonishingly cheap flights to the Philippines