With a refreshing, new tropical design, and improving efficiency initiatives, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport is reaching for the stars with the Skytrax awards
Sunlight streams through lofty wooden ceilings, creating a spacious, uncrowded atmosphere. The luxury stores are stocked with top brands for shopping. There’s also a wide array of food and beverage options, from Cebu’s quintessential lechon to warm ramen and cozy coffee shops. As you stroll through the sunlit halls, you realize you’re not at a resort—you’re still at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Serving as the primary gateway to Central Visayas, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City is the Philippines’ second busiest. Since opening in 1966, it has undergone significant renovations.
The airport’s expansion was driven by a notable public-private partnership involving the government, Megawide Construction Corporation, and India-based GMR Infrastructure. In 2022, Aboitiz took full control of operations as a major stakeholder.
Many may remember the traumatic events of Typhoon Odette in 2021. Despite the heavy damage, the Cebu airport has recovered in great strides.
At present, MCIA holds a prestigious 4-star rating from Skytrax, the air transport rating organization behind the World Airline Awards, often referred to as the Oscars of air travel. This recognition reflects the Cebu airport’s efficiency, consistent service, language proficiency, and hospitality that can make any Filipino, Cebuano or not, proud.
Tropical and sustainable airport design
The newly renovated MCIA, especially Terminal 2, features light, breezy designs speckled with cultural elements. Hong Kong-based Integrated Design Associates Ltd. led the architecture, incorporating Cebuano heritage and vernacular design.
Renowned Cebuano industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue played a key role, along with design pioneers Budji Layug and Royal Pineda, who are credited for the sloping timber arches that evoke the design of ocean waves and an inverted boat hull.
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Breaking away from the sterile, utilitarian aesthetics associated with airport terminals, there is a tangible scent of wood, and many rattan details crafted by Cebu artisans. The slick, polished floors are artfully scattered with repurposed shells, evoking the feeling of being by the seaside.
As the first airport in the world to use mostly wood and local resources, the Cebu airport leans toward sustainability initiatives, which are felt in the little details.
Athanasios “Thanos” Titonis, MCIA’s vivacious Greek CEO with roots in Germany and over 30 years of aviation experience, paints a picture of the airport’s mission: “At the end of the day, every airport is a reflection of the country it represents. You see it in the country you’re arriving in; it’s the first and last impression travelers have… It is not just a transit point—it’s an opportunity to show the essence of the country in public space.”
Adding to the local flair, the staff uniforms, designed by Cebuano couturier Cary Santiago, feature bright red colors and vibrant feathered headdresses.
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Art as a centerpiece
One of the most striking features of the renovated MCIA is dedicated projects showcasing Filipino art and culture. The airport has partnered with National Artist Eric Oteyza de Guia, popularly known as Kidlat Tahimik, to present his grand art installation.
This work, which was previously exhibited at the Palacio de Cristal del Retiro in Madrid in 2021 and at the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) in 2022, has now found a temporary home at the Cebu airport.
On August 22, stakeholders at MCIA and representatives from NMP unveiled “Indio-Genius: Balikbayan #1 and 500 Years of Homecoming to Cebu” at Terminal 2.
“This is the first batch of four installations that will serve as a preview of what’s to come,” said NMP Director-General Jeremy Barns.
MCIA’s Deputy COO, Aldwin Uy, added, “[The airport] is a dwelling place for every tourist, and we wanted to leverage that to showcase our culture.”
READ: Kidlat Tahimik’s ‘Indio-Genius’ finds new home at Mactan airport
Kidlat Tahimik’s installation offers a modern reinterpretation of Enrique de Malacca, Ferdinand Magellan’s slave who guided the Spaniards through Southeast Asia.
Enrique is repeatedly described by Tahimik as that “indio-genius.” The installation presents a fictionalized account of colonization history, spanning from pre-colonial times and trade with China to Magellan’s expedition and death in Mactan, Cebu, relevant to the installation’s new location.
The installations on view include a map carved by Kidlat Tahimik’s son, Kabunyan, depicting Enrique’s journey guided by wind, waves, and stars.
Other elements include a wooden sculpture of the Ifugao goddess of the wind, Inhabian; tributes to the Manunggul Jar with its spirit boats reflecting ancient Filipino burial practices; and bululs, carved figurines representing the traditional rice gods of the Cordillera region.
In November 2024, the large-scale galleon aspect of the “Indio-Genius” installation is expected to be transported and installed at the airport.
For international passersby in the airport, the distinctly Filipino art is meant to share a unique, engaging perspective on the country’s history.
Tahimik explains, “Most places put up shawarma stands and duty-free shops, but I think the most important airports in the world have an artistic aspect.” He cited Dubai’s famous 23-foot Teddy Bear by Swiss artist Urs Fischer and the kinetic rain at Changi Airport in Singapore as examples. “It’s not just the amenities but the soul of the country. The whole way of thinking is relevant, and I hope this installation will do that.”
On the technological and operational side
While the artistic and cultural elements of MCIA are impressive, the airport has not neglected the practical aspects of airport operations. The renovation has brought significant technological and operational improvements for better passenger experience.
The Airport Operations Control Center provides real-time decision-making capabilities, allowing for quick responses to any issues. There are also QR codes placed throughout the terminal so that passengers can provide immediate feedback, which is relayed in real-time to the control room, too.
It has also transitioned into a “silent airport” prioritizing visual displays over loud announcements, for a more comfortable passenger experience.
Solar panels have also been installed in the domestic Terminal 1, with plans to extend this sustainable energy solution to Terminal 2.
The airport is also developing an exciting “Cebu Connect” transfer system, an initiative by Aboitiz InfraCapital, that will transform the airport landscape with streamlined transfers between Terminal 1 and 2.
Among long-term plans in the works are a mall and a hotel in the surrounding infrastructure.
These have all contributed to MCIA’s recent 4-star Skytrax rating.
The Cebu airport’s “Abiba Sugbo” campaign
Following its Skytrax success, MCIA has launched the “Abiba Sugbo” campaign to compete for recognition as one of the World’s Best Airport Staff at the 2025 Skytrax Awards—asking passengers and partners to cast votes in favor of the hospitality of Cebu airport staff.
Customer Experience Head, Ricia Montejo, reflected on the award, “Providing friendly and efficient service is at the core of our commitment to passengers. We achieve this by conducting training programs that meet global customer service standards.”
For the seven-month campaign launch of Abiba Sugbo last August 22, Aboitiz InfraCapital Vice President for Airports Business Rafael Aboitiz, delivered opening remarks.
“Abiba Sugbo is a bold step toward elevating our already growing international recognition through the prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards. These awards, determined by popular vote, honor the world’s best airports and we hope to join that top tier… The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is more than just an airport… Every passenger that travels through our doors drives economic growth, fosters closer cultural connections, and enriches them with the beauty and wonder that is the Philippines.”
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