Cebu Pacific Highlights ESG, Decarbonization Strategy to SMU Delegation

Cebu Pacific officials hand over a token to Singapore Management University Associate Provost Themin Suwardy during SMU’s learning journey visit in Manila. Also in the photo are CEB cabin crew members Cezzye Denise C. Basa and Ruby L. Orellana, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao, and CEB Vice President for Engineering and Fleet Management Shevantha Weerasekera. IMAGE Cebu Pacific

Cebu Pacific recently welcomed faculty and officials from Singapore Management University (SMU), including members of its International Advisory Council, for an exclusive visit to its Aplus hangar. Aplus is a wholly owned subsidiary of the airline, providing line and light aircraft maintenance services for Cebu Pacific and other airline clients across the region.

The only airline selected for SMU’s two-day learning visit to Manila, Cebu Pacific shared key insights into how sustainability is being integrated across its operations—focusing on decarbonization, responsible governance, and elevating the customer experience.

“Sustainability is not just a checkbox for us—it’s a commitment we take seriously. As the aviation industry evolves, we fully recognize the responsibility we bear—not only to our passengers but also to the communities and ecosystems affected by air travel. Hence, our relentless focus on embedding ESG in all relevant aspects of our operations,” said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer.

That commitment is reflected in concrete actions across the airline’s operations. It has implemented initiatives in aircraft and engine selection, flight operations, efficient maintenance practices, and responsible waste management—key areas that have positioned it as a leader in carbon efficiency among local carriers. In 2024, it recorded its lowest carbon emission intensity since 2019, achieving 80 grams of carbon dioxide per revenue passenger kilometer (RPK), outperforming the global airline average of 90 grams per RPK.

Cebu Pacific also emphasized its strong corporate governance practices, including advanced cybersecurity and risk management systems. In 2024, it maintained a zero-data privacy breach record. Internally, it continues to invest in employee well-being through mental health programs, ongoing training, and inclusive engagement initiatives.

On the customer front, the carrier recorded a satisfaction score of +28 in 2024—doubling its rating from the previous year—reflecting continued efforts to enhance passenger experience through digital innovation and service excellence.
​
This focus on customer well-being complements its broader ESG agenda. In 2024, Cebu Pacific achieved its highest Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings to date, receiving a score of 46 from S&P Global and an “AA” rating from MSCI. These ratings place the carrier among the top-performing airlines worldwide in terms of ESG performance.

​“SMU recognizes the crucial role of airlines in advancing sustainability, and Cebu Pacific’s approach demonstrates that environmental responsibility and operational efficiency can go hand in hand. Our engagement with Cebu Pacific is aligned with SMU’s strategic pillar in Sustainable Living and has provided valuable insights into how the aviation industry can innovate for a sustainable future,” said Associate Professor Themin Suwardy, SMU’s Associate Provost for Postgraduate Professional (PGP) Education.

Operating 37 domestic and 26 international routes, Cebu Pacific continues to lead sustainable aviation in the region, integrating ESG principles into its operations while keeping air travel safe, reliable, and accessible to every Juan.