The new second terminal at Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is “a physical symbol of confidence” in the market and in the destination.
Speaking to delegates at Routes Asia 2019, Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the terminal, which opened 11 months ahead of schedule, underscores the efforts being made to drive tourism and increase air connectivity to the Philippines.
“I am in agreement with our president Rodrigo Roa Duterte when he said that with its elegance and resort-like feel, the gateway dubbed as the only ‘Resort Airport in Asia’, is definitely the most beautiful airport in the country today,” she said.
“This new gateway connects Cebu not only to the entire Philippines but to the world. The MCIA is the reason why our visitors have better access to the pristine beaches and a whole lot of fun activities that Cebu has to offer.”
MCIA’s second terminal has a floor area of 65,000 sq m and is designed to increase the airport’s total handling capacity. Passenger capacity in the airport is expected to double from 4.5 million passengers a year to 12.2 million passengers a year.
Undersecretary for tourism development Benito Bengzon Jr added: “Beyond the nice wood, the glass, the concrete, the airport really is a physical symbol of confidence in the market and in the destination.
“It’s a physical symbol of the confidence of the aviation community, the travel trade, and what Cebu has to offer.”
Routes Asia 2019 in Cebu comes three years after the Philippines hosted Routes Asia in Manila.
Puyat said: “Three years ago, we had the privilege of hosting this prestigious event in Manila and it raised the international profile of the city as one of the key gateways of the country to the world.
“The positive feedback received from the delegates, organisers, and guests inspired us to bring this event once more to our shores.”
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