Shri - Thanks. I'll try again next time. I think I just got a dud customer service rep who gave me the wrong info. I certainly would have preferred to book online than to trek over to the travel agent.
My helper's hometown is Ozamiz City. I know both Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific fly there.
Thanks Cara, I should be more straight next time!! She was telling me how long the waiting time from Manila to her hometown will be, and also she doesn't want to take the ship because too dangerous and it'll take 3 days to get there??, blah blah blah...giving me headache..what would you all do??
Just an update in case this is of use to anyone. I've just managed to purchase a Cebu Pacific airticket using my Citibank credit card with no problem, but the transaction could not be processed using my HSBC credit card. Go figure!