Sydney’s Filipino community gathered at Waterview Convention Centre at Olympic Park last 10 May 2013 to express their gratitude to retiring Philippine Air Lines Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand, Arnul Pan.
It was a befitting tribute to a man who has served Philippine Air Lines for 39 years. Surrounded by his family, Mr. Pan beamed as he listened to the words of gratitude that flowed from 27 community organizations along with business and travel agents.
In his 12 year assignment in Sydney, Arnul had become a friend of the community. He was the giver of flight. His name was synonymous with “flying home.” He was most generous with his help for community organizations for their worthy causes with the donation of a return flight to the Philippines.
In his response, Mr. Pan thanked the community for their support and said: “I am now the pilot of my own life. I am now disembarking.”
Mr. Brett McDougall of Rakso Australia/Philippine Air Lines was also present to pay tribute to Mr. Pan for all his years of loyalty and service to PAL. Consul Marford Angeles congratulated Mr. Pan and delivered a message on behalf of Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis.
The program organizers headed by Atoy Sayas of Zignal Travels took off with an airport scene and a simulated a plane ride with Mr. Eugene Benitez as the pilot for the night, along with Marivic Manalo, Tess Sayas and Mao de Vera playing the flight crew.
Gina Fernandez, the singing travel consultant of Aeon Travel and Ms. Lillian de los Reyes were the guest performers along with Emerson’s aka “Buble” renditions.
Mr. Pan brought his family over in 2006 and has since made Australia their home too.
It was an impressive night to honour someone who was most deserving. From an ever grateful community, thank you Mr. Pan-tastic!
