ralphmanibog

[ralphmanibog]

Day 22: “Running Towards the Future (Literally and Figuratively!)”

If there’s one thing I’ve learned during my internship at Cathay, it’s that aviation isn’t just about airplanes—it’s about people, friendships, and, sometimes, a whole lot of running.

Today was a regular day at the airport—flights came and went, passengers checked in, and operations ran smoothly. But beneath the surface of routine, today held moments of inspiration, pride, and, well… cardio.

One of the highlights of my day was waiting for my friend and classmate, Alice, as she checked in for her flight to Japan. She wasn’t just any passenger—she was flying in Business Class, a well-deserved experience for someone who has spent over 30 years with Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong. Alice has always been someone I looked up to—her kindness, her depth of aviation knowledge, and her dedication to this industry have been nothing short of inspiring. Watching her embark on this trip for a friend’s wedding, I couldn’t help but admire how aviation has shaped her life, just as it’s shaping mine.

Today also marked my last shift with my dear friend and co-op classmate, Tiffany. And the reason? She’s officially a flight attendant for Porter Airlines! She’s the first in our batch to land a prestigious cabin crew role, and I couldn’t be prouder. Watching someone you’ve worked alongside achieve their dream makes you realize that all the hard work, the late nights, and the endless passion for aviation really do pay off. Tiffany, I know you’ll shine at Porter just as you did here at Cathay!

Now, here’s where things took a hilarious turn. Because of the recent daylight saving time adjustment, our usual shift ending at 1:30 AM suddenly became 2:30 AM. This small detail wouldn’t have been a problem—except that we completely forgot about public transportation schedules. By the time we wrapped up, we realized with horror that we were dangerously close to missing the last bus and subway home. And so, in what I can only describe as a real-life action movie (but with interns in their casual clothes instead of secret agents), my co-interns and I sprinted through the airport in a desperate attempt to catch that last ride home.

Did we make it? Well, thanks to our Olympic-level running (and maybe a bit of luck), we just barely caught the last trip. But not before one of our friends recorded the whole chaotic moment on video—our faces filled with panic, determination, and pure exhaustion.

As funny as the whole running fiasco was, it felt symbolic in a way. This internship has been a journey—a series of sprints and marathons, of chasing after experiences and learning from every step. Some days, we’re running towards career goals, like Tiffany stepping into her new role. Other days, we’re running towards inspiration, like Alice showing us what dedication looks like after decades in the industry. And sometimes, we’re just running for our lives to catch the last bus home. Aviation is fast-paced, ever-changing, and sometimes chaotic—but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Here’s to more journeys, more growth, and hopefully, better planning for public transit schedules.

[ralphmanibog]

Day 21: “Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Wins”

Today was an intense yet fulfilling day at my Cathay internship, filled with unexpected challenges, valuable feedback, and a well-deserved celebration. The day started with my arrival briefing alongside Homer, a customer service agent, who informed me that we had three special attention passengers requiring immediate assistance. One was seriously ill and needed paramedics, another was also sick, and the third accused someone onboard of stealing his wallet, prompting security intervention. To ensure a smooth disembarkation, Homer assigned me to man the 2L door for wheelchair assistance, but since the special cases were efficiently handled by the authorities, all passengers ultimately disembarked through 1L. While I wasn’t directly involved in the incidents, observing how the team managed them reinforced the importance of quick thinking, teamwork, and remaining calm under pressure.

A highlight of my day was my second progress check with Professor Ava and DAOM Eagle, where I received positive feedback that motivated me to keep striving for excellence in customer service. Their encouraging words reassured me that I was on the right path, and it was inspiring to see my hard work recognized. To commemorate the moment, I had the chance to take a picture with my boss (Burak), Professor Ava, our co-op lead, and my fellow co-interns—capturing the memories of this journey. After a long and demanding shift, my co-interns and I decided to treat ourselves to a Korean restaurant at Yonge and Finch, a perfect way to unwind and celebrate the wins of the day.

Reflecting on today, I realized how crucial adaptability is in airport operations. No two days are ever the same, and being able to think on your feet while working as a team makes all the difference. The feedback I received reminded me that growth comes from every experience, and taking time to acknowledge progress is just as important as pushing forward. With each passing day, I’m learning, evolving, and becoming more confident in my role. I can’t wait to see what the rest of this journey has in store!

[ralphmanibog]

Day 20: “Navigating the Unexpected”

On my 20th day as an intern at Cathay Pacific, I anticipated a routine evening at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). However, the city was enveloped in dense fog, signaling potential challenges ahead.

Recalling my aviation studies in the Philippines, I understood that runway lights and Air Traffic Control (ATC) coordination are crucial during low-visibility conditions. Despite this knowledge, around 7:30 PM, our Duty Airport Operations Manager (DAOM), Jack, informed us that our inbound aircraft had been diverted to Hamilton Airport due to the weather.

This diversion necessitated several adjustments. Typically, we prepare the check-in counters around 8:20 PM, but that evening, we commenced setup closer to 9:00 PM. Upon arrival, we encountered a growing line of passengers. Maintaining composure was essential to keep passengers calm and informed.

Under Jack’s guidance, we organized passengers into their respective classes—Business, Premium Economy, and Economy—and directed them to the appropriate lanes. Initially, we withheld information about the delay, advising passengers to consult directly with check-in agents. Compensation was provided: Business Class passengers received $40 meal vouchers, while Premium Economy and Economy passengers were allotted $25 vouchers. While some expressed frustration, many were understanding of the situation.

We advised passengers to return between 10:00 and 10:30 PM for further updates. After the aircraft landed at YYZ around 11:20 PM, Pamela and I assisted Homer, an experienced agent, in locating 17 passengers who had missed their connections due to the diversion. We successfully found 16, escorting them through immigration, assisting with luggage retrieval, and facilitating their rebooking with accommodations and transportation. Their cooperation, sprinkled with humor and patience, made the process smoother.

Despite the delays, boarding proceeded efficiently. As a token of appreciation for our extended efforts, Jack treated the interns to Wendy’s and arranged transportation home.

This experience underscored the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and maintaining a positive attitude amidst unforeseen challenges. Each day at Cathay Pacific offers invaluable lessons, and I’m eager to continue this journey.

[ralphmanibog]

Day 18-19: “From Smooth Sailing to High Stakes: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Airport Operations”

Day 18 was a smooth and routine day, with check-in, boarding, and departures running efficiently. Although everything went as expected, I still had the opportunity to learn something new. Rafael (Agent) showed me where baby strollers and wheelchairs are stored before departure, using a small elevator in the aerobridge. It’s a small but important detail that ensures a seamless process for passengers needing special assistance. Every day, I realize how many behind-the-scenes operations contribute to a smooth travel experience.

Day 19, however, was a completely different challenge. The conveyor belt broke, and I was assigned to SSBD (Self-Service Baggage Drop), where I saw firsthand the physical demands of the job. Nav (Agent) and Jack (DAOM) worked tirelessly to manually load each bag, proving that strength and teamwork are just as important as customer service skills. On top of that, the flight was overbooked, and several passengers requested seat changes. I had to clearly explain that all seats were occupied, but fortunately, the team managed to find three volunteers willing to give up their seats in exchange for $2,400 each and a rebooking for the next day. A highlight of my day was once again being able to take a picture inside the aircraft—something that always excites me and reminds me why I love this industry. These two days reinforced the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, and teamwork in ensuring smooth airport operations.

[ralphmanibog]

Day 15-17: “Runways, Routines, and Random Moments”

Day 15:

Smooth sailing! Check-in, boarding, and even watching the pushback—everything went perfectly. Love when shifts go like this!

Day 16:

Pam and I weren’t supposed to have a shift, but I needed more hours, so I messaged Eagle to see if we could work—and lucky us, he said yes! The best part? Our friend Gavin from Air Transat was on the same shift. Everything went smoothly, but the funniest moment was when we stayed back to watch the pushback… and completely missed it because we were too busy gossiping. Hahaha!

Another highlight—I got to experience arrivals for the first time! It’s not that hard, but it’s not that easy either. Everything moves so fast, and you really have to stay focused. Also, I finally got to check out the Cathay Pacific lounge. Pretty cool experience!

Day 17:

Nothing new today—just another smooth shift. But one moment stood out! While helping the flight crew with their bag tags, the captain actually thanked me in Filipino: “Salamat po, Ralph.” Hearing my own language like that made my day!

Loving these little moments at work. Can’t wait for more!

[ralphmanibog]

Day 13 & 14: “Smooth Sailing and Great Memories!”

Not every day at the airport is filled with surprises—and sometimes, that’s a good thing! Days 13 and 14 of my internship went by smoothly. Boarding was right on schedule, passengers were cooperative, and everything flowed seamlessly. It was one of those stretches where you truly appreciate the calmness in such a busy environment.

Day 14 was extra special, though. I had the chance to take some great photos with the cabin crew, capturing memories I’ll definitely treasure. It was a nice reminder of how much I’m learning and how many amazing people I’m meeting along the way.

Smooth operations, happy passengers, and new great memories—what more could I ask for? Looking forward to what’s next!

[ralphmanibog]

Day 12: “A Rollercoaster of a Day!”

Today was one for the books! I was scheduled for a morning shift, but due to the snowstorm from the day before, transportation was challenging. Determined not to miss out entirely, I volunteered to cover the night shift for my colleague, Shauna. Wanting to be extra prepared, I arrived at the airport three hours early—better safe than sorry, right?

But just when I thought I was ahead of the game, everything changed. A Delta aircraft had an accident on the runway, leading to mass delays and, eventually, the cancellation of all interns’ shifts by higher management. Even though I had already arrived, I understood their decision—it was all about ensuring safety and smooth operations.

Before heading home, I and Aniken noticed how exhausted the morning shift agents were, dealing with the chaos of delayed flights. Wanting to lift their spirits, we stopped by Tim Hortons and picked up a box of sweets for them. Sometimes, a small gesture can go a long way during hectic days like this.

Even though we didn’t get to work my shift, the experience was a great reminder of how important adaptability and teamwork are in the aviation industry. Here’s to smoother skies ahead!

[ralphmanibog]

Day 11: “Early Boarding & a Mini Scavenger Hunt”

Day 11, and guess what? I’ve pretty much got the flow of things down! From pre-flight preparations to passenger interactions, everything is starting to feel second nature.

Today, boarding was earlier than usual, which meant teamwork was key. All of us jumped in at the gate, checking passports and boarding passes, making sure every passenger was good to go. It was fast-paced but smooth—just the way we like it!

Before boarding, I got to sit in the flight deck again (because, why not? Haha). Every time I take that seat, it’s a reminder of my dream to become a pilot. There’s something surreal about being in that cockpit, surrounded by all the controls, knowing that this is where the magic happens. For a moment, I just sat there, taking it all in—it never gets old.

But the real adventure? Two passengers were missing. Yep, with time ticking down, we had to find them—fast. So what did we do? We went full detective mode, calling out their names inside the gate like a dramatic airport scene in a movie. “Mr. Kong! Ms. Kong!” (Insert dramatic echoes here.) Everyone around us was either amused or slightly concerned, but hey, we found them just in time!

Another day, another story to tell. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

[ralphmanibog]

Day 10: “Nailing the Announcement”

Today was a smooth and uneventful day at my Cathay Pacific internship—just the way I like it. Everything went according to plan, with no major hiccups or surprises. The workflow was steady, and I felt more confident in my role than ever.

The highlight of the day? Another gate announcement. After my first attempt a few days ago, I was determined to improve. This time, I took a deep breath, focused on my pacing and tone, and delivered the announcement with clarity and confidence. And guess what? I nailed it! No stumbles, no awkward pauses—just a professional and polished delivery. It felt like a small victory, but in an industry where communication is key, these little wins matter.

With each passing day, I’m becoming more comfortable in this environment. I’m learning the routines, understanding the expectations, and slowly but surely finding my rhythm. Can’t wait to see what’s next!

[ralphmanibog]

Day 9: “From Cockpits to Close Calls: A Day in My Cathay Pacific Internship”

Today started on a fun note as my co-interns and I played a game called Tappers before our shift. It’s a simple yet interactive game that gets everyone engaged and energized for the day ahead. A great way to start what turned out to be an eventful shift!

The day itself was business as usual—busy flights, full loads, and the usual hustle. But what made today special were the little moments that made the experience even more memorable. I had the incredible opportunity to step inside the cockpit of the Airbus A350 on CX flight 828 and snap a picture! Standing in the flight deck, seeing all the controls up close—it was surreal. I also got a chance to take a picture in the business class section, which was a cool experience on its own.

Another highlight was doing the boarding announcement again—and this time, I can confidently say I nailed it! My delivery was smooth, clear, and professional. It felt great to see how much I’ve improved since my first announcement.

But the most intense part of the shift? A near delay! Two missing passengers had the entire staff searching the gates, only to find out they were mistakenly waiting in Terminal 1 instead of Terminal 3. Unfortunately, by the time we contacted them, it was too late. The gate agents had to rebook their flights to avoid further delays, and the passengers agreed. Just another example of how crucial attention to detail is in aviation!

Overall, Day 9 was a mix of fun, learning, and real-life airline operations in action. Every day brings something new, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store next! ✈️

[ralphmanibog]

Day 8: “A Test of Teamwork”

Today was one of those days that truly tested our patience and adaptability. The flight was delayed for several minutes because the arriving aircraft was late, which meant the pressure was on to keep everything running smoothly.

With only Pam and me from the interns assisting at the gate, we had to step up and support the agents during boarding. The rush, the urgency, and the weight of keeping things efficient made it intense—but also exhilarating. 😮‍💨

At one point, I encountered a particularly challenging passenger. It was one of those moments where staying calm and composed was the only way through. Thankfully, I handled the situation smoothly, and it was a small but satisfying win in a hectic day.

Despite the stress and exhaustion, what made the day bearable was the teamwork. Everyone pulled their weight, supported each other, and kept the process moving. By the end of it, we were drained but proud. Another lesson learned, another experience gained.

On to the next challenge! ✈️

[ralphmanibog]

Day 7: “First Time at the Gate – A Milestone Unlocked!”

Today was a big day—I finally stepped into the gate area as a Cathay Pacific Customer Service Ambassador! But getting here wasn’t easy.

The Struggle for the Yellow Pass

Unlike my colleagues, who received their passes in just 20 minutes, mine took nearly three hours. As an international student, my documents were scrutinized, especially an unemployment letter from 2020–2021. The agent assisting me wasn’t convinced, leading to escalations and uncertainty. I started to worry—what if I couldn’t get my pass today? Thankfully, after some back-and-forth, his supervisor and colleagues stepped in to support me, and I was finally approved. A stressful start, but a victorious ending!

Gate Duties & A Special Announcement

With my yellow pass in hand, I headed to the gate for the first time. One highlight? Making a gate announcement! I even had to call a passenger to approach the counter due to missing documents—an important reminder of how crucial our role is in ensuring smooth departures.

A Quiet Yet Memorable Shift

Surprisingly, the evening wasn’t too hectic. With Chinese New Year approaching, my fellow Cathay agents shared an interesting tradition—many Chinese travelers prefer not to fly during the holiday. The result? A calmer shift, allowing me to absorb more of my new role without feeling overwhelmed.

A Sneak Peek Inside the Aircraft

To top it all off, I got a quick tour of the Cathay Pacific aircraft. Stepping inside, seeing the layout, and imagining the passengers who would soon fill those seats made everything feel even more real.

Today was more than just another shift—it was a milestone. From overcoming hurdles to making announcements, and even getting a glimpse inside the aircraft, it’s a day I won’t forget. On to the next adventure!

[ralphmanibog]

Day 4-6: “From Smooth Sailing to Controlled Chaos: My 4th, 5th, and 6th Day with Cathay Pacific” 🤯

As an intern with Cathay Pacific, every day brings new challenges and lessons, and my 4th, 5th, and 6th days were perfect examples of the unpredictable nature of the aviation industry. 🛩️

Day 4 and 5: Business as Usual 👨‍💼

On my fourth and fifth day, everything went like clockwork. The check-in process flowed smoothly, with no unexpected hurdles. Each passenger was processed efficiently, and there were no surprises—just the steady rhythm of teamwork ensuring a seamless experience. It was the kind of day you hope for in this line of work, where preparation meets execution without a hitch.

I took this opportunity to observe more of the operational side of customer service and hone my skills in passenger assistance. It was a day of routine, but in this field, routine can be a quiet triumph. 🛬

Day 6: When the System Fails, Teamwork Prevails 👏🏻

If Day 4 and 5 was smooth sailing, Day 6 was a storm. From the moment I arrived at the airport, there was an unmistakable buzz of tension. The self-service bag drop (SSBD) kiosks, a cornerstone of efficient check-in for many passengers, had become completely unresponsive. With hundreds of economy passengers queued up and growing increasingly frustrated, the situation demanded immediate action.

Cathay Pacific’s management quickly adapted, opening all check-in counters from 509 to 518 to manually process every passenger. As a Customer Service Ambassador and ground agent intern, I was stationed with my co-interns to manage the queue. Our role was crucial: we guided passengers to the next available counters, reassured them, and apologized for the inconvenience.

It was not an easy task. Many passengers were visibly irritated, their travel plans disrupted by the system failure. In these moments, empathy and composure were our strongest tools. I found myself constantly engaging with passengers, explaining the situation while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor. 👨‍✈️

Despite the chaos, something extraordinary emerged—teamwork. Agents, managers, and interns worked side by side, coordinating seamlessly to minimize delays. The counters operated at full capacity, and we all pushed ourselves to ensure every passenger was checked in and ready for their journeys. 🛫

Lessons from the Front Line 💡

This experience reinforced the unpredictable nature of aviation and the importance of adaptability. When systems fail, it’s the people on the ground who make the difference. I learned that clear communication, patience, and a calm approach are invaluable in high-pressure situations.

While the day was undoubtedly challenging, there was a sense of accomplishment when the last passenger was finally checked in. It was a testament to the power of collaboration and resilience.

As I reflect on my 6th day, I realize that while smooth days like Day 4 and 5 are satisfying, it’s the challenging days like Day 6 that truly shape you. They push you to think on your feet, work as a team, and grow in ways you never expected.

Here’s to more lessons and adventures ahead in this ever-dynamic industry! ✈️🌎

[ralphmanibog]

Day 3: “A Night to Remember” 🌒

My third day at Cathay Pacific was a memorable one, as it was my first night shift at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The experience came with new challenges, particularly when the baggage conveyor belt stopped working.🧳 I quickly learned how to manage forced check baggage by retrieving the extra ticket from the baggage tag 🏷️, recording the weight on the bingo sheet, and ensuring everything was properly logged into the system. It was a great opportunity to practice staying calm under pressure while paying close attention to details. ✨

What made the shift more enjoyable was the teamwork and support from my colleagues. Everyone worked together to keep things running smoothly despite the minor setback. During breaks, I got to bond with the team, which added a positive social element to the night. Overall, the experience taught me valuable lessons in adaptability, precision, and collaboration, reinforcing my passion for the aviation industry. I’m looking forward to more learning opportunities in the days ahead! 🛩️

[ralphmanibog]

Day 2: “Navigating Day 2: Hands-On Learning and Passenger Assistance at Cathay Pacific” ✨

Another exciting and insightful day at the airport! Our shift began with a pre-flight briefing followed by hands-on training. Thanks to Neha and Nav, who are also Seneca students, I learned how to set up the dim sum cart, SSBD computer, and check-in totems before passenger boarding begins.

One of the key tasks today was guiding passengers through the self-service kiosk machines for check-in and assisting them at the Self Service Bag Drop (SSBD). I learned how to handle passengers from different classes—business, premium economy, and economy—and guide them accordingly. I even got to assist the flight crew with luggage tags and help passengers with various inquiries about their flights.

This experience gave me the chance to interact with people from different nationalities and cultures. Every task taught me something new, making me feel more confident about providing excellent customer service.

Looking forward to learning more on the next shift! ✈️

[ralphmanibog]

Day 1: “Ready for Takeoff: My First Day as a Cathay Pacific Ambassador” 🛫

What a day to remember! We just wrapped up our first orientation with Cathay Pacific at Terminal 3, and it was both exciting and insightful. Getting there was a breeze—literally. My friends Aniken, Pamela, and I took the GO bus, and with such a smooth ride, we arrived feeling fresh and ready. After hanging around for a bit, our mentors Jordan, Cadence, and Hana arrived. These three did an awesome job keeping everything organized by splitting us into smaller groups for the terminal tour. I landed in Jordan’s group, and honestly, he was great—very professional, super approachable, and clearly an expert at what he does. 💯

The orientation wasn’t just informative—it was genuinely fun, and the snacks were a nice touch too! They treated us to Tim Hortons during the discussion, which added to the welcoming vibe. The session covered everything we need to know about being customer service ambassadors, from key responsibilities to tips on creating a positive passenger experience. Even though it was brief, it left me feeling confident and motivated to represent Cathay Pacific. I was a bit disappointed that I didn’t get my uniform yet 🥺 (something I was really excited about!), but receiving my name pin and lanyard made things feel official and real. ✨

Overall, it was an amazing start! Between the learning, the snacks, and the great company, the day flew by. I couldn’t ask for a better team and mentors, and I’m genuinely excited to continue this journey. Here’s to new beginnings and striving to be the best ambassadors we can be! 🌎✈️