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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/AirAsia Philippines) |
On a powerful display of women leadership in aviation, AirAsia Philippines operated an all-women flight from Manila to Caticlan (Flight Z2 227) last March 10, 2025 featuring a complete team of female pilots, cabin crew, engineering, ground staff, and ramp agents. From check-in to takeoff, women led every aspect of the flight experience with Captain Jasmin Timola, who has been flying with AirAsia Philippines for almost a decade, commanding the aircraft alongside an all-female cabin crew while ground operations spanning check-in counters, security, engineering, and ramp services were also facilitated by AirAsia’s empowered female workforce.
In the Philippines, the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline prides itself with over 700 female All-Stars, representing a significant 39% of its total workforce, championing gender diversity. This direction aligns with the broader AirAsia Aviation Group, which surpasses global industry average with 7% female pilots and 8.9% female engineers. The airline is also pushing for greater representation in technology through its #WomenInTech initiative, targeting 30% female participation. “Gone are the days when the aviation industry was considered a 'man’s world'. I humbly take pride in being part of the strong women in AirAsia. Each year, the number of women in our workforce continues to grow — a progressive commitment to an inclusive workplace. We are consistently winning for our guests because there are equal opportunities for all,” said AirAsia Philippines Chief Finance Officer Zoe Lee.
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| L-R: SMAC Chief Operating Officer John Patrick Cua, SM Retail Chief Finance Officer Jonathan Ng, SM Group Executive Director Herson Sy, AirAsia Rewards Chief Business Officer Nicole Tan, AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ricky Isla, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Rewards Regional Head of Rewards Partnerships Leong Diyao (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/AirAsia Philippines) |
Meanwhile, the SM group’s retail loyalty program SMAC has entered a strategic tie-up with AirAsia Rewards to offer enhanced shopping and travel experiences. This collaboration expands the value for both SMAC and AirAsia Rewards members while strengthening SM’s presence across retail and travel sectors. As part of the “My SMAC, My MOVE” lifestyle campaign, SMAC members can convert 500 AirAsia points into 125 SMAC Points via the AirAsia MOVE app, integrating the benefits of travel rewards into the SMAC ecosystem. This partnership builds on SMAC’s extensive network and introduces new rewards for frequent travelers and shoppers alike. “We are excited to launch this collaboration with AirAsia Rewards. By combining shopping and travel rewards, we’re enhancing the value of our loyalty program and offering more meaningful experiences to our members,” said SMAC Chief Operating Officer Patrick Cua.
SMAC Points earned through this partnership can be redeemed across a wide array of SM Retail Stores including SM Store, SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, Savemore, SM Appliance Center, and other popular brands like ACE Hardware, Our Home, Surplus, and Watsons. Additionally, members can convert 200 SMAC Points into 300 AirAsia points via the SMAC website (smac.ph), providing more travel benefits and increasing the value for both shoppers and travelers. “This partnership underscores our commitment to offering greater rewards and a seamless experience for our customers. Working with SM allows us to enhance the value we provide to loyal customers in both the retail and travel sectors,” said AirAsia Rewards Chief Business Officer Nicole Tan. The partnership brings business benefits to both parties. SM increases engagement and foot traffic across its retail stores while deepening customer loyalty. For AirAsia Rewards, the collaboration taps into a new base of active shoppers, further strengthening its position in the Philippine travel market.
Together, they create an expansive rewards ecosystem that combines shopping, travel, and lifestyle benefits. This strategic tie-up aligns with both companies’ goals to drive customer loyalty, expand their reach, and enhance brand visibility. As SM continues to expand its service ecosystem, the partnership with a regional brand like AirAsia rewards marks a significant milestone in delivering lasting value for customers, investors, and both brands.
