THE Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has been named the Best Airport in the Asia-Pacific Region, marking a historic first for the airport.
Julius Neri Jr., general manager of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority, announced the recognition from Airports Council International (ACI) during a ceremony on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
The award places MCIA among the top airports in the world.
“It means a lot to me that our relatively small airport is up there and recognized,” Neri said.
Neri added that the recognition would boost passenger traffic and strengthen MCIA’s position as a connectivity hub.
“We are marketing not only Cebu but also our airport… We can now connect to more places in the country and tourism hubs in Cebu,” he said.
Only airport in PH
MCIA won the award in the five to 15 million passengers per annum category. It is the only airport in the Philippines to receive the distinction.
Ricia Montejo, head of customer experience at Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corp. (Acac), said the award reflects passenger feedback and the airport’s efforts to improve the passenger experience.
She said the Airport Service Quality program, run by ACI, collects real-time feedback from departing passengers. Every detail — from facilities and services to amenities and operational standards — is measured to ensure MCIA continues to elevate the passenger experience.
ACI is a global trade association that sets industry standards and promotes safety, security, and sustainability in the aviation sector.
Athanasios Titonis, chief executive officer of Acac, credited the dedication of airport staff, including customer service, immigration and security personnel, for MCIA’s success.
Neri said MCIA and the Aboitiz Group are working to attract more concessionaires and offer a diverse mix of retailers to meet passenger needs. He added that the current terminals can accommodate up to 15 million passengers annually, with room for expansion if needed.
Neri vowed to maintain the title of Best Airport.
“Please bear with us because an airport is never perfect. There are times when some things do go wrong. Rest assured we always do our best to solve these problems, but to make sure they are not repeated,” said Neri.
The award will be presented in September during a ceremony in Guangzhou City, China. / DPC