Friday, April 25, 2025

From reflection to exploration: How Holy Week has evolved for Filipino travelers

Once marked solely by reflection and religious tradition, Holy Week in the Philippines has transformed into one of the country’s most significant travel moments. This year, new insights from AirAsia MOVE show that Filipinos are using the extended break not just to pause—but to explore, reconnect, and recharge in ways more personal than ever before.

How the Philippines Moved This Holy Week

Peak Travel Dates

This year, April 16 saw the highest number of departures, while April 20—a Sunday—emerged as the top return date, reflecting the classic end-of-holiday rush.

Rise of the Solo Traveler

One of the most surprising trends? Over 53% of flights were booked by solo travelers. Even during what is traditionally a communal holiday, Filipinos are embracing self-discovery and “me-time” like never before.

Couples and families each made up 17% of travelers, followed by small groups at 9% and medium groups at 3%.

Millennials Dominate, But Seniors Are Jet-Setting Too

Millennials (aged 30 to 39) continue to lead the way, making up 35% of travelers, followed by the 20 to 29 age group at 27%. But the spotlight is also shining on older travelers—13% of passengers were seniors aged 70 to 79, highlighting a rise in multigenerational trips and a renewed appreciation for giving back to elders through meaningful experiences.

Travel in Style: Comfort is King

Forget the backpacker stereotype—this year’s travelers prioritized comfort. A whopping 45% chose luxury hotels, with 43% opting for mid-range accommodations. Only 12% went for budget stays, suggesting that more Filipinos are investing in quality travel experiences, even for short getaways.

Top Destinations: Where Filipinos Went

Domestically, Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo were the top picks. Internationally, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Tokyo led the charts.

Interestingly, Manila also appeared on the international arrivals list—indicating that many overseas Filipinos flew home to spend Holy Week with loved ones.


More Than a Break—A Travel Lifestyle

Holy Week 2025 showed us that for Filipinos, travel is no longer just an escape—it’s a lifestyle choice. From solo journeys and family reunions to indulgent staycations, it’s clear: every trip is deeply personal.

With AirAsia MOVE, your all-in-one travel companion, exploring has never been easier. From flights to hotels, you can book everything in one go using SNAP—exclusively on the AirAsia MOVE app. Want extra savings? Score deals every Wednesday with promo code WEDNESDEALS.


Formerly known as airasia Superapp, AirAsia MOVE is the region’s newest Online Travel Agent+ (OTA+), offering a seamless and personalized travel experience. With access to over 700 airlines and 900,000 hotels worldwide, plus ride-hailing, insurance, duty-free shopping, and more, AirAsia MOVE is your gateway to travel made simple—across ASEAN and beyond.

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