PASSION IN MOTION

In the dynamic world of aviation, where balance, coordination, and flexibility are essential, Philippine Airlines (PAL) Cabin Crew members have forged a unique bond that transcends their professional roles through the PAL Cabin Crew Dance Crew (CCDC).

PAL CCDC is a vibrant community where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to connect, move, and grow, driving personal growth and collective energy toward inclusivity.

Dance becomes a powerful means of connection and self-expression, strengthening personal and professional relationships. Trust, dedication, and joy intertwine, creating a family that thrives on mutual support and shared passion. Their commitment and discipline have earned admiration within the PAL Family and beyond.

THE FORMATION AND INCLUSIVITY: BUILDING STRONGER CONNECTIONS
The PAL CCDC began as an informal gathering when the department sought performers for the PAL In-Flight Center (IFC) Christmas Party 2007. Ivan Calatrava (resigned) led the group composition, inviting Wrick Udani, Mike Carpio, Amor Maximo, Princess Tolentino, Diana Torres, Cara Ylagan, and Camille Toledo-Lapan.

Since its inception, PAL CCDC has steadily grown, welcoming dancers from diverse backgrounds and skill levels. This mix of experiences and styles gives the crew a unique flavor, allowing each member to express themselves freely while celebrating individuality. While many members gravitate towards hip-hop, the crew also embraces a variety of genres, including modern, jazz, folk, street, and contemporary, among others.

The benefits of joining the crew go beyond just physical activity. For many, it is a confidence booster, a way to challenge personal limits and a space for personal growth. What truly sets the PAL CCDC apart, however, is its emphasis on inclusivity. New members are always welcomed by both seniors and peers, fostering a sense of belonging, building friendships, creating mentorship opportunities, and encouraging dancers to push their creative boundaries while feeling comfortable and confident in their skin.

THE PREPARATION AND PERFORMANCES: OVERCOMING CHALLENGES TOGETHER
As of writing, FS Amor and FA Camille, in coordination with the Cabin Crew Division and PAL Management, oversee the group’s activities and projects. Preparing for a performance is no easy task; members constantly communicate, exchange schedules, bid flights, or get special assignments to make time for practice sessions. While they aim to hold group rehearsals at least 1-3 days before each showcase, they also thrive in solo rehearsals, using demos and tutorials to prepare. Some members even recalled an instance when they had to dance alongside a local music group for a PAL corporate video, with only a few hours to practice and shoot simultaneously. Despite the challenges, PAL CCDC has consistently delivered stunning performances—whether at corporate events, such as ICCT, IUT, and PUT graduation ceremonies, the PAL Christmas party, or Fitness Friday dance classes at PAL IFC.

In March 2024, PAL CCDC performed at the Fly With Her event to celebrate International Women’s Month. The performance honored all the women in the aviation industry, recognizing their strength and contributions. The female members were overjoyed and proud of the positive feedback they received from their families, friends, and colleagues. The experience was nothing short of surreal, leaving them inspired and hopeful for more opportunities to showcase their talent in future events like this.

THE TANGO AND BRIDGES: STRENGTHENING BONDS AT WORK
At PAL CCDC, the magic of dance extends far beyond the stage. The bonds formed in dance translate seamlessly into their daily professional lives. As they perform together, they grow in sync and learn cooperation, discipline,mhard work, and trust while enabling a safe and secure environment that brings joy and excitement. They also refine essential skills like time management, attention to detail, and fitness—qualities that help them excel as cabin crew members, ensuring smooth flights and happy passengers. Their passion for work and dance needs commitment, consistency, and dedication.

PAL CCDC nurtures an environment where communication flows effortlessly across all ages and experiences, boosting morale and collaboration. Members are not just colleagues —they are friends who make the workplace feel like home. This supportive and accommodating atmosphere facilitates a positive mindset where everyone feels valued and at ease, regardless of their role. The sense of family improves the group’s dynamics and increases success in their competitive fields.

PAL CCDC has big dreams for the future. While their performances have primarily been internal, the crew looks forward to expanding their horizons and maybe representing PAL in dance competitions. Their vision is to create a more inclusive dance community within the company that promotes the PAL DNA and Buong Pusong Alaga.

See more photos from this story in this issue of The PALiner: https://thepaliner.philippineairlines.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/TPL-2025-March-Issue.pdf