MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Airlines Employees Association (PALEA) will file a motion for reconsideration after the Court of appeals upheld Malacanang's decision to allow PAL to outsource many of their jobs.

In an interview with ANC, PALEA spokesman Gerry Rivera said his group is prepared for a long legal battle.

"We know this still has a long way to go. We understand the legal process is tedious and long," he said.

Rivera, however, added they have been in talks with PAL's new management since December.

"We don't have to wait for the Supreme Court. We have the expertise needed for the massive refleeting program," he said.

He said his group's skills are needed by PAL as the airline pursues a big re-fleeting program.

In 2011, Malacañang upheld PAL's right to outsource ground crew, in-flight catering, and call center reservations operations.

The move affected some 2,600 employees.

Last year, San Miguel bought half the airline, took management control, and embarked on a re-fleeting program. - ANC