08/07/2024
**Statement from Jailani Hajj and Umrah Group**
July 8, 2024
We wish to inform the public and all concerned parties about an unfortunate incident that occurred during the return journey of our group from the holy pilgrimage.
On July 7, 2024, at 4:00 PM, our entire group arrived safely at NAIA Terminal 3 from our flight from Saudi Arabia. Subsequently, at 10:29 PM, the check-in and bag drop for our domestic flight from Manila to Zamboanga, covering all the passengers, were successfully completed. All baggage was checked in, boarding passes were issued, and the check-in procedures were completed. The boarding time was scheduled for 6:00 AM.
However, upon proceeding to the assigned gate, 19 of the pilgrims were informed by the ground personnel that their flight had been rebooked to July 10, 2024, without any prior consent, notice, or knowledge of the passengers, the sheikhs, or the individual who booked the flight. The rest of the pilgrims were able to board their flights and have arrived safely in Zamboanga.
After lengthy discussions with Cebu Pacific Management and the Civil Aeronautics Board at NAIA Terminal 3, it was revealed that a request had been made for the flight to be rescheduled to July 10, 2024, through their messenger live chat at approximately 12:54 AM on July 8. We have reason to believe that a third party made this request. Despite this, the rebooking was not executed as requested.
Due to this delay, we have arranged accommodations at Silver Oaks Hotel in Manila to house our group until a confirmed flight has been secured.
We understand the distress and inconvenience this has caused to the families and relatives of the passengers. Please rest assured that we are taking all necessary steps to address this issue and ensure the safe and timely return of all group members. Furthermore, the Jailani Hajj and Umrah Group is contemplating legal action against the concerned parties due to this mishap.
We deeply regret any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding and patience as we work towards resolving this matter.
Sincerely,
**Jailani Hajj and Umrah Group**
