Cebu’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport Welcomes New Runway
Table of Contents
- 1. Cebu’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport Welcomes New Runway
- 2. Cebu Airport Expansion: A Runway to Progress
- 3. What are the potential economic benefits of increased air traffic and connectivity facilitated by the new runway?
- 4. Cebu Airport Expansion: A Runway to Progress
- 5. A Conversation with julius Neri, General Manager, MCIA
President Ferdinand R.Marcos Jr. recently inaugurated a landmark project at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) – a new PHP 2-billion alternate runway in Lapu-lapu City. This inauguration marked the culmination of President Marcos’s four-day visit to Cebu, his first trip to the province this year.
Joined by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, and MCIAA General Manager Julius Neri Jr., President Marcos led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting of the 2,560-meter-long, 45-meter-wide runway, a strategic move to strengthen Cebu’s position as a key aviation hub.
“This new runway at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport reflects the very essence of Cebu: it is dynamic, promising, and always ready to take on challenges. And just as Cebu has been a centre of trade and tourism, this parallel runway symbolizes the unrelenting drive to connect, to grow, and to lead,” President Marcos remarked during his speech.
General Manager Neri emphasized the importance of the new runway, stating it will considerably boost the airport’s capacity to accommodate both domestic and international flights. Expecting a 25 percent increase in flight volume, the airport will be able to handle 30 flights per hour with greater efficiency, contributing significantly to economic growth and tourism.
“Thus, the parallel runway, which will increase our capacity to accept both foreign and local tourists, will also improve the safety of our airport amidst the challenges of the aviation industry. This is very vital to the province of Cebu and all its component cities,” Neri added.
Expressing pride in this new milestone, governor Garcia hailed it as another testament to Cebu’s progress, stating in Cebuano, “Wala nay laing airport karon nga adunay parallel runway. Napuno na usab kini nga garbo natong mga Sugbuanon as it’s right here in our beloved island of Cebu.”
With air traffic demand rising steadily, the new runway addresses the need for enhanced infrastructure and smooth operations. Last year, MCIA catered to 8.5 million domestic passengers, nearly three million international passengers, and an impressive 67 million kilograms of cargo, further highlighting the airport’s crucial role in the national and regional economy.
“This airport has been instrumental not only in the development of this province but also of the Central Visayas region and other provinces served by flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. And in those, we must include the destinations of the feeder flights—not only to the visayas region but down to Mindanao and even back up to Luzon,”
President Marcos emphasized.
according to General manager Neri, the current runway is nearing capacity, especially during peak hours. The additional runway will alleviate congestion and support future growth, ensuring MCIA remains a vital gateway for both domestic and international travellers.
As the Philippines’ first parallel runway, this new infrastructure represents a bold step forward in enhancing Cebu’s competitiveness, connectivity, and capacity to welcome visitors. President Marcos highlighted Cebu’s leadership in infrastructure development, stating, “And as I was commenting to the Governor on our way over here, nauna na naman, inunahan na naman ng Cebu ang Maynila dahil matagal na nating pinaplano ‘yung sa Maynila. Pinag-uusapan pa lang ‘yung sa Maynila, tapos na ‘yung nandito sa Cebu Mactan,”
He further praised cebu for its unique blend of history and progress, saying, “It’s a place where history and progress come together very gracefully, where tradition converges with innovation, and where the grit and tenacity of its people shine brightly in every achievement.Today, we celebrate a new victory in Cebu’s remarkable and ongoing story.”
Cebu Airport Expansion: A Runway to Progress
Cebu’s bustling airport is poised for a major transformation, marking a significant milestone in the Philippines’ infrastructure development. The inauguration of a parallel runway promises to revolutionize air travel in the region, boosting capacity, efficiency, and connectivity.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hailed the achievement, emphasizing its alignment with his management’s enterprising “Build Better More” infrastructure program. “This vision is anchored in the principles of good governance and a collective desire to uplift the lives of our people—recognizing that progress in connectivity translates to progress in opportunities,” he stated.
once fully operational, the parallel runway, slated for completion in 2028, will enable simultaneous operations, significantly increasing the airport’s capacity.Officials predict a surge in passenger traffic, with the airport capable of handling up to 18 million passengers annually. This expansion comes at a crucial time, as the aviation industry experiences a surge in demand.
“with two runways running full-time, the airport will have the capacity to cater to up to 18 million passengers a year,” Marcos noted.
cebu Airport Manager, said, “Mr. President, please consider this parallel runway as our modest contribution to your Build Better More infrastructure development program,”. He further assured the President that Cebu Province, under Governor Garcia’s leadership, remains committed to showcasing the best of Cebu and contributing to the Philippines’ progress.
The new runway’s commissioning coincides with plans to undertake essential repairs on the existing runway, ensuring continued smooth operations. This strategic timing demonstrates Cebu’s proactive approach to infrastructure maintenance and future-proofing its airport.
Beyond boosting passenger capacity,the expansion signifies a broader commitment to national progress. It underscores the Philippines’ dedication to attracting investments, fostering tourism, and creating opportunities for economic growth. Cebu’s airport expansion serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring progress not only for the province but for the entire nation.
What are the potential economic benefits of increased air traffic and connectivity facilitated by the new runway?
Cebu Airport Expansion: A Runway to Progress
Cebu’s bustling airport is poised for a major transformation, marking a meaningful milestone in the Philippines’ infrastructure development. The inauguration of a parallel runway promises to revolutionize air travel in the region, boosting capacity, efficiency, and connectivity.President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.hailed the achievement, emphasizing its alignment wiht his governance’s enterprising “Build Better More” infrastructure programme. “This vision is anchored in the principles of good governance and a collective desire to uplift the lives of our people—recognizing that progress in connectivity translates to progress in opportunities,” he stated.
We spoke exclusively with Julius Neri,General Manager of Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA),to delve deeper into the impact of this transformative project.
A Conversation with julius Neri, General Manager, MCIA
Archyde: General Neri, congratulations on the inauguration of the new runway. How significant is this development for MCIA and Cebu’s future?
Neri: Thank you. This is indeed a momentous occasion for MCIA. The parallel runway represents a quantum leap forward for our airport, enabling us to handle considerably more passengers and flights. We’re anticipating a surge in passenger traffic, possibly reaching 18 million passengers annually once fully operational.
Archyde: President Marcos emphasized the runway’s alignment with his “Build Better More” infrastructure program. How does this project contribute to that vision?
Neri: mr. President, please consider this parallel runway as our modest contribution to your Build Better more infrastructure development program. Improved connectivity directly fuels economic growth. Cebu,with its strategic location,serves as a gateway to the Visayas and Mindanao,and this expansion will significantly boost trade,tourism,and overall prosperity.
Archyde: Beyond increased capacity, what othre benefits can travelers expect?
Neri: Improved efficiency! With two runways operating together, we’ll minimize delays and congestion, leading to smoother, more reliable travel experiences. Imagine shorter wait times, more flight options, and a generally more pleasant journey.
Archyde: MCIA is undergoing crucial repairs on its existing runway. How will travelers be affected, and how does this timeline fit into the overall expansion plans?
Neri: We’re committed to ensuring minimal disruption. These repairs are essential for maintaining safety and ensuring the longevity of our infrastructure. The timing of the repairs, coinciding with the commissioning of the parallel runway, demonstrates our proactive approach. Once the new runway is fully operational, travelers will benefit from both a modernized facility and uninterrupted service.
Archyde: Looking ahead, how do you envision MCIA’s role in shaping Cebu’s future?
Neri: MCIA is poised to be a catalyst for Cebu’s continued growth. As the gateway to this vibrant province, we aim to attract investments, facilitate tourism, and connect Cebu to the wider world. We envision a future where MCIA is not just an airport, but a hub for innovation, commerce, and cultural exchange.
Archyde: Thank you, General Neri, for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing MCIA soar to new heights.
This expansion represents a bold vision for Cebu’s future. What do you think are the biggest opportunities presented by MCIA’s growth?
