The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has achieved a significant milestone by being named the Best Airport in the Asia-Pacific Region, a first in its history. This prestigious recognition was announced by Julius Neri Jr., the general manager of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority, during a ceremony on March 11, 2025. The award, bestowed by the Airports Council International (ACI), places MCIA among the top airports globally, signifying a remarkable achievement for the airport and the Philippines as a whole.
Neri expressed his pride in the airport’s accomplishment, emphasizing the impact this recognition would have on boosting passenger traffic and solidifying MCIA’s position as a key connectivity hub. He highlighted the importance of marketing both Cebu and the airport, enabling more connections within the country and enhancing tourism opportunities in Cebu.
MCIA’s victory in the five to 15 million passengers per annum category sets it apart as the sole airport in the Philippines to receive this prestigious accolade. Ricia Montejo, the head of customer experience at Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corp. (Acac), attributed the award to passenger feedback and the airport’s continuous efforts to enhance the passenger experience. The Airport Service Quality program, managed by ACI, gathers real-time feedback from departing passengers to assess various aspects such as facilities, services, amenities, and operational standards, ensuring MCIA’s commitment to elevating passenger satisfaction.
As a global trade association setting industry standards, ACI promotes safety, security, and sustainability in the aviation sector. Athanasios Titonis, the chief executive officer of Acac, acknowledged the dedication of airport staff, particularly in customer service, immigration, and security, for contributing to MCIA’s success. Neri highlighted ongoing efforts to attract more concessionaires and provide a diverse range of retailers to cater to passenger needs. The current terminals at MCIA can accommodate up to 15 million passengers annually, with potential for expansion if required.
Looking ahead, Neri pledged to uphold MCIA’s title as the Best Airport, acknowledging that perfection is an ongoing pursuit in airport operations. He assured passengers that any issues would be addressed promptly and effectively to ensure a seamless travel experience. The award will be formally presented in September during a ceremony in Guangzhou City, China, marking a significant moment for MCIA and the Philippines’ aviation industry as a whole.
