WHEN it opens its doors to the public on July 1, Terminal 2 (T2) of the Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) will not only be a showcase of quality interiors and more check-in counters, it also promises visitors a more relaxing stay.
Designed by Integrated Design Associates, a Hong Kong-based architectural firm, the new terminal’s concept is inspired by the natural landscape of the Philippines.
The terminal’s roof structure, which is made up of glued-laminated timber wood arches, is its most recognizable feature.
More than being pleasing to the eyes, the laminated layers of timber are also resistant to fire and seismic movements.
The timber arches that came all the way from Austria create an image similar to that of the sea waves of Mactan Island.
Its internal spaces, on the other hand, are enclosed by an 18-meter high transparent and sound-proof glass facade.
To complete the island vibe that T2 gives, the floors of its departure area boasts of Terrazzo flooring with mother-of-pearl inlay, making it look like white sand. The shards of crushed pearls were sourced from Cebu.
The whole place also showcases Cebu’s best tourist spots.
This display of Cebu’s best serves as a warm and hospitable welcome to the 4.5 million international passengers the T2 will serve.
With a land area of 65,000 square meters, the new terminal provides better circulation for passengers and a wide range of facilities for relaxation and leisure.
The departure area on the third level is divided into four check-in halls with 48 counters.
The arrival area on the second floor, on the other hand, has seven boarding bridges, which can be expanded to 12.
At least 12 escalators and 15 elevators are available in the terminal as well.
What’s unique about its escalators, though, is that it has four steps that make it child-friendly and less accident-prone.
A spa, prayer room, and an array of restaurants and retail stores await passengers at the departure area.
The prayer room is available for passengers of different religions. A smoking room is also available.
Passengers suffering from back pain and sore feet can treat themselves to a massage at The Spa at Cebu or stay at Plaza Premium while waiting for their flights.
Two tourist lounges are also available for them to stay in.
Meanwhile, the washrooms feature lush, green moss walls that were made in Italy.
Made from natural lichen, the moss wall helps stabilize humidity and improve air quality.
The cubicle doors are solid mahogany wood and made by a furniture company in Mandaue City.
But since T2 will only cater to international flights, GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Co. is holding an open house tour for the public today and tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Avegail Maningo, MCIA corporate communications manager, said that those who want to take a glimpse of T2 may register on MCIA’s official Facebook page.
Walk-in visitors may also join the tour as long as they can present their valid ID, Maningo added.