We recognized her immediately, not the least for her lovely morena complexion, bright eyes and big smile.
Menchie Aduan-Francisco was the lone Filipina flight purser among the crew of 10 for the delivery flight of Cathay Pacific’s new 777-300ER from the Boeing Delivery Center in Everett, Washington, and she was just as excited as we were. “I believe you’re chosen for your performance—how you deal with passengers and work with your colleagues,” she said on why she got the call to be part of the prestigious flight. “Syempre, it’s an honor, and you don’t say no. It’s also my first time in Seattle!”
Menchie confirms that Filipinos are indeed known for going the extra mile and service with a personal touch, and she has gotten complimentary feedback from happy passengers. The 42-year-old mother of two and wife to a graphic designer has also learned a lot after almost 20 years on the job, including how to be open to different cultures and tolerant of passenger quirks.
Training is rigorous with Cathay Pacific, especially when it comes to safety, she reveals, but the rewards are worth it, including good pay and travel to new places. (She’s looking forward to Cathay Pacific’s new flights to Madrid next year.)
Being a flight attendant has always been a dream for this Tourism graduate from the University of Santo Tomas who spent part of her childhood in Irian Jaya, Indonesia, where her father worked. Constant travel exposed her to glamorous flight attendants, and she decided early on that was the job she wanted—and it’s a job she still enjoys. Her children have also gotten used to her schedule.
“Yes, it’s glamorous, but it’s also hard work,” she notes. “But if you have the desire, then it will not be like work at all.”
Naturally, Menchie took good care of us during the flight, making an extra effort to replace my vegetarian meal when I thought the fish looked yummier (although Cathay Pacific knows how to do vegetarian, I can tell you).
“Please text me when the article will come out,” she reminded us with a laugh, “para matuwa naman mommy ko.” We’re sure she’s mighty proud of you, Menchie.