Photo Release

Representatives of Philippine Airlines (PAL), led by Mr. Jose Maria Alvarado, Regional Head for North America, paid a courtesy call on Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano at the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago on 03 August 2026.

Joining Mr. Alvarado were Mr. Romeo C. Javier, Jr., Assistant Vice President, Go-To-Market/Marketing Department; Ms. Ma. Iana Kariz I. Arriesgado, Global Corporate Sales; and Ms. Ma. Teresita L. Romilla, Activations and Sponsorships, Marketing Department. Consul General Diano was joined by Consul Ella Karina R. Mitra-Yeager during the meeting.

The meeting focused on PAL's preparations for the launch of its direct Manila-Chicago service in November 2026, as well as the airline's planned initiatives and stakeholder engagement activities to support the new route, strengthen its presence in the US Midwest, and promote greater connectivity between the Philippines and the region.

The discussion also covered opportunities for collaboration between PAL and the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago in support of the 2027 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour, which the Consulate will coordinate.

The Consul General welcomed PAL's initiatives and reaffirmed the Consulate's support for efforts that enhance connectivity between the Philippines and the American Midwest, promote tourism and business, and strengthen Philippine-US ties. END