PAL Tagal

PAL Tagal, originally uploaded by edbumalo.

Came through this picture in my archives which instantly reminded me of lots of troubles I had while traveling with the Philippine Airlines. This shot was taken in Bangkok in 2007. Flashing proudly on the airports flight sched monitor – PR0731 MANILA DELAYED.

Back in 2006 I slept at NAIA T2 for about 5 hours waiting for a PAL plane which supposed to depart at 11AM. We were advised our flight will depart at 6PM instead. So much trouble for some travelers but for me it was a perfect timing! I had a terrible hang over it was almost impossible for me to be on that flight. But I was allowed to check-in and pass through immigration. I already conditioned my mind to use those sanitary bags. This was the only time I was really thankful for a delayed PAL.

Few weeks ago I decided to travel via PAL Express - AirPhil domestic flight going to Tuguegarao. Travel time is only 1hr and the ticket is only Php1,300 one way. So 10AM I was at the airport for my 11AM flight. While queuing to check-in, the clerk announced the plane will arrive only at 2PM. I was not surprised and not much hassle for me cause I had the whole day allotted for travel and my family is with me at the airport. But for one Caucasian who seems a regular flyer… “Late again?? This is not PAL Express, change your name to PAL Tagal!!!”.