PHL AirAsia names Comendador as interim CEO

Philippines AirAsia Inc., local affiliate of Malaysia-based low-cost carrier AirAsia, announced that  Capt. Dexter Comendador would be its interim CEO effective July 30.

"We are pleased that Capt. Dexter has agreed to step into the interim CEO role and we are excited about the important change and strategic direction that we are committed to bring for our guests and travelers here and abroad," Marianne Hontiveros, chairperson of Philippines AirAsia, said in a statement Friday.

Commendador has over 34 years of experience in the aviation industry as an officer in the Philippine Air Force and as a commercial pilot for various airlines.

He joined Philippines AirAsia in 2011 as director of Flight Operations, and was promoted to chief operating officer in 2015. 

Comendador replaces Joy Cañeba, who resigned after three years of service in the airline.

"We would like to thank Joy for her valuable contributions over the past years. Her leadership has driven Philippines AirAsia to grow and expand from strength to strength. We are fortunate to have Capt. Dexter serve as interim CEO,"  AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes meanwhile said.

During Cañeba's management, the airline's recorded passenger load increased by 81 percent in 2015, from 70 percent a year earlier.

Cañeba had served as Philippines AirAsia's legal head, COO. She served as CEO the last three years.

“I have no doubt that under Captain Dexter’s leadership, the team will continue to succeed. I am thankful for the support of the stockholders," Cañeba said. — John Ted Cordero/DVM, GMA News