I am somewhat surprised that Cebu Pacific hasnt restarted direct flights from Cebu to Bangkok. There does seem to be a PH airline direct twice a week if you are flexible but its gonna be more expensive.

Next summer? I hate to say it but youre planning a little far ahead on this. You shouldnt need to book these flights any closer than 3 weeks ahead! Also you might try following AirAsia and Cebu on twitter when they announce deals. I have had the AirAsia Airpass a few times. It is like $150 and then ya get a few months of free flights. Great for long trips or if you live there. I have gotten 4 of them.

Transiting in Manila isnt the end of the world. Everyone speaks english at least, and flights to Cebu go every 30 minutes so if you get delayed, its reasonable to expect a short wait for the next flight. Transiting elsewhere there might only be one daily flight.