The PAL Learning Center History

Philippine Airlines has long been noted for the outstanding quality of training provided to its employees. The professionalism of flight attendants; the masterful flying abilities of pilots; and the frontline skills of the ground staff are some of the concrete results of PALs training programs. Originally, training was provided by four training units from different Departments (Flight Operations, Inflight Services, Maintenance and Engineering, and PAL Development Center). The units operated separately from one another and exclusively for PAL employees. In 1980, PAL Development center started to offer Basic Air Cargo to external clients. Soon after, other programs were offered externally to capture and satisfy the increasing market demand for PALs quality training. The company recognized the vital role of the training in making PAL competitive in the airline industry. This, along with the companys vision of becoming the dominant carrier in the Asian region, led to the integration of the separate training units into a Training and Development Department. The birth of this Department is a crucial step taken by the flag carrier in rebuilding its service culture. It is also a part of the ongoing total corporate restructuring program geared towards the realization of its vision. The Training and Development Department was formed in January 1996. It is composed of four major training units: Corporate and Commercial Training, Inflight Service Training, Flight Deck Crew Training, and Ground Technical Training. PAL Aviation School is also made part of the Department. Eight months later in September, the new department formally transferred to its new home at PAL Learning Center a move that fittingly reflects the companys high premium training.

Now based on a four storey edifice sprawled on an area of 7,000 square meters at the corner of Padre Faura and M. Adriatico streets in Ermita, Manila, PAL Training and Development continues to breathe life into the airlines corporate vision as well as live up to its three-pronged commitment. This is to develop organizational learning, equip the aviation industry with the highest form of technical skills on the ground and in flight, and build client employability. While challenging itself to be a renowned Center for aviation learning, PAL Learning Center carries through the formidable task of not just helping people succeed but more so, making them reach for the skies.