The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has opened a new 2.56-kilometer parallel runway, a strategic infrastructure development aimed at supporting the region’s growing tourism and economic activities. The inauguration, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing Central Visayas’ connectivity and competitiveness.
Marcos emphasized that Cebu Province, as the region’s center of trade and tourism, will significantly benefit from the increased flight capacity. The new runway is poised to accommodate a surge in air traffic, driving more jobs, regional development, and inclusive growth. “This airport has been instrumental not only in the development of this province, but also the Central Visayas region and other provinces served by MCIA,” he said during the event.
The addition of the parallel runway is a notable milestone for the Philippines, making MCIA the first airport in the country to feature this infrastructure. This advancement is expected to improve flight operations, reduce congestion, and increase the airport’s ability to serve more visitors, thereby reinforcing the country’s position as a top travel and trade destination.
In 2024, MCIA reported a significant increase in passenger traffic, with 11.3 million passengers—8.5 million domestic and 2.8 million international—flying in and out of the airport. Domestic travelers grew by 13 percent, while international passengers saw a 12 percent increase. Cargo operations also saw a boost, with 67 million kilograms of goods processed in 2024, signaling a vibrant and expanding economy in the region.
The new runway is expected to further strengthen Cebu’s role as a key economic hub in the Central Visayas, providing the infrastructure necessary to handle future growth in both tourism and business travel.
