MCIA renews its Level 1 carbon accreditation, reaffirming its commitment towards net-zero emission

LAPULAPU CITY –The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) successfully renewed its Level 1: Mapping accreditation under the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program of Airports Council International (ACI), strengthening and reaffirming its commitment to achieve net-zero emission by 2050 for the aviation industry.

“Renewing our ACA Level 1 accreditation is a strong demonstration of our continued sustainability commitment. It reinforces our focus on implementing effective carbon reduction strategies across our airport operations,” Athanasios Titonis, CEO of the Aboitiz InfraCapital- Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) said.

Titonis bared that MCIA remains the first airport in the Philippines to receive this distinction. The Level 1: Mapping accreditation recognizes the airport’s efforts to monitor and manage its carbon footprint— specifically Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions —over a three-year cycle. This milestone sets the foundation for long term carbon reduction strategies.

“This renewal is both a validation of our team’s work and a driver for future initiatives.  It inspires us to expand our environmental programs even further as part of our broader sustainability roadmap and in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.  MCIA continues to map and monitor its emissions within its operational boundaries,” Samuel Elle, Head of the Safety, Quality, and Environment Department added.

The ACA program is the only globally recognized carbon management certification designed specifically for airports. Level 1: Mapping involves calculating and documenting an airport’s carbon emissions, serving as the starting point for future reduction plans.

MCIA is currently implementing programs in energy efficiency, renewable energy use, and water management. These efforts support the airport’s net-zero goal by 2050 and its broader vision of making Cebu the Philippines’ premier tourism and transfer gateway, Titonis stated. (Photos: MCIA-FB/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

Cebu’s whiz kid, Kiersten Sy does it again, clinches 4 awards at PIMSO 2025

CEBU CITY—Cebu’s Science and Math whiz kid, Kiersten Candice Sy did it again by clinching four championships at the Philippine International Math and Science Olympiad (PIMSO) 2025 held at The Manila Hotel, April 4 to April 7, representing the Philippines against contenders from 13 countries including Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Macau, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam and India.

Kiersten emerged as a Champion in Science, 1st Runner-up in Math, Gold Awardee in the Pimsolver Cup for both subjects, earned the distinguished World Star Award as a top scorer and Pan-Asia Scholars Champion.

Kiersten, now 17, is a Grade 10 student from Cebu City National Science High School and has carved her name into international acclaim by winning championships in Science and Match since 2021. What started as a childhood curiosity has blossomed into a shining academic journey.

Kiersten began joining contests in Grade 1, stepping onto the international stage by Grade 4. Since then, her pursuit of excellence in Math and Science has been consistent and unwavering, despite the pressure that often comes with competition.

 “Whatever challenge you go through, don’t expect it, and don’t pressure yourself into doing something you don’t want to do. Be proud of your achievements—even if you just got a participation award or merit—because at the end of the day, what matters is that YOU reached the stage, YOU got the experience, and no one has the right to compare,” Kiersten encourages aspiring achievers like her. 

Her words become powerful reminder that success isn’t just about medals and rankings, but the growth, courage, and resilience behind every step taken.  From a little girl in Cebu with big dreams to an internationally recognized academic powerhouse, Kiersten Sy stands as an inspiration for young learners everywhere.

Dr. Catherine Sy, Kiersten’s mom told this writer that Kiersten has already participated in more than 60 math and science competitions organized by different Math and Science organizations in the country and abroad and she has won more than 10 gold, six silver and seven bronze medals and some certificates in 2021.

                                            

                                                

                                                 (The Science/Math Team from Region VII)

Kiersten has been competing in Math and Science Olympics since 2021 where she won gold in Science in the August, 2021 PIMSO, National Round; won gold in the Copernicus Natural-Science Global on November 3, 2021; gold in Math at the Siam International Math & Science Olympics on November 10, 2021.

She also won at the International STEM Olympiad in Math on December 15, 2021; Hongkong International Science Olympiad-HEAT Round on Dec. 17, 2021; CREST Olympiad International on March 3, 2022; Copernicus Mathematics on April 30, 2022; Challenge for Future Mathematician 2022 on May 13, 2022; SASMO- Singapore and ASIAN Schools Math Olympiad; and the PIMSO on June 12, 2022.

Kiersten competed under the SIMSO Mathematics Primary 6 category where she also won the gold and is ranked top in the Philippines.  She also received a gold medal after she ranked 7th in the Category 1 for Grade 5-6 level in the Copernicus Natural Science Olympiad.

She also received the Department of Education (DepEd) achievement awards and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) awardee for the Youth Excellence in Science (YES) for two years.

She got gold in Mathematical Olympiad (SEAMO) 2024 competing against 23 regions and more countries; International Champion – East Asian International Math Open 2025 (EAIMO), Middle Grade and International Top 2 – Sino International Science and Mathematics Olympic (SISMO Math).

                                                    

                                           Let’s get to know this genius kid

Kiersten showed interest in mathematics at an early age, around six to seven years old when she started solving math problems. She first competed in the Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC), an annual mathematics competition aimed at raising the competitiveness of elementary and high school students.

In an exclusive virtual interview with this writer, Kiersten explained that her solving Math problems is just like completing jigsaw puzzles and this fascination drove her to excel in Mathematics.  She is a bookworm on anything Science and Math.

 

“I love to study and solve problems, especially those in math and science. I challenge myself every day to solve problems in math and natural science, which are my favorite subjects. But I also have other interests like drawing and art and I have this fascination to do crafts and small stuff such as making origami,” Kiersten told this writer.

Mom Catherine told this writer that aside from undergoing training before the competitions, Kiersten also includes prayers as part of her preparations. She usually takes care of her siblings on her free time. Even at an early age, Kiersten is a very responsible child even in small things, more so with her studies.

 “How do you feel being called a genius?” This writer asked.

“Actually, I could not call myself as a genius, so many participants are better than me, I won because of discipline, time management and prayers. I always make time for playing gadgets, online interactions with my friends from my previous schools and of course doing my tasks in school,” Kiersten answered.

Kiersten narrated that she used to experience a lot of insecurities before, when she was enrolled in a Chinese private school.  She sometime received hate letters and felt that she was bullied. At first, she said she gave in, she would intentionally not answer her test paper to give way to the ranking, but she later realized that was wrong.

“I should love myself and should consider doing what makes me happy. Being an achiever is not a sin, all I want is for my parents to be happy and give back the good things they provide for me. Every moment that I will be sitting on a competition I motivate myself to win, honestly speaking who wouldn’t wish to win?” Kiersten said.

Indeed. This whiz kid is not stopping, this is just the beginning! (Photos: Dr. Catherine Sy)

                                     

News Feature: 4 films win at the 13th Cebu Int’l Film Festival 2024

CEBU CITY – The Cebu International Film Festival (CEBU.IFF) announced recently the winners of the 13^th Cebu International Film Festival 2024 during its awarding ceremony on March 15, 2025 via online viewing at its Facebook Page under the theme, “Pushing Boundaries Through Film"

CIFF trustees Lilu Alino and Marie Ernestine Denise Fajatin shared with this writer that this year’s winners are a celebration of an inspiring collection of films that pushed creative boundaries, told powerful stories, and showcased exceptional talent from around the world.

“We are proud to announce the winners of the 13^th CIFF 2024 and we honor the visionary filmmakers who have made this year’s edition truly unforgettable,” Fajatin said.

The winners are: Best in Long Narrative—"Water Lilies” from South Korea; Best in Short Narrative— “Mi Unico Hijo” from the Philippines; Best in Student Film— “VAINGLORIOUS” from the United States; and Best in Short Documentary— “Indai Apai Darah” from Indonesia.

“Congratulations to all the winners! Your films have not only captivated our hearts but also showcased the power and diversity of global storytelling. We eagerly anticipate how your creative visions will continue to inspire and leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide,” Alino said.

Synopsis of the four winning films

Best in Student Film – “VAINGLORIOUS” directed by Oshiomati Gabriel Ugbodaga is a gripping and emotionally charged film that tells the story of a skilled young boxer and his determined father, locked in a high-stakes battle within a traditional Nigerian boxing match.  As their fists collide, so do their dreams, pride, and unwavering resilience—pushing them to their ultimate limits with everything they hold dear on the line.

Best in Short Documentary--"Indai Apai Darah” directed by Kynan Tegar is a beautifully crafted documentary that sheds light on the struggle and resilience of the Dayak Iban people of Sungai Utik, Indonesia who have fiercely protected their sacred forests against the rising tide of deforestation. Through the eyes of a young girl, the film weaves a touching tribute to the trees, rivers, and wisdom of the elders who have safeguarded their heritage for generations.  A powerful love letter to nature and indigenous identity, Indai Apai Darah stands as a testament to the importance of preserving both culture and environment.

Best in Long Narrative--"WATER LILIES" directed by Chanho LEE is a poignant and deeply moving tale that follows Hyowon, an aspiring actress and Eunseo, a high school dropout, as they escape to Seoul in pursuit of dreams that shimmer like distant stars.  Amid the city’s towering skyline and its shadowed corners, they navigate the fragile balance between hope and despair, tethered by unspoken struggles and the weight of survival.  A story of longing, resilience, and the quiet pain of dreams deferred.  This film captures the essence of human connection in a world that often demands more than it gives.

Best in Short Narrative--"MI UNICO HIJO" directed by Edzel Rebamontan is a compelling story that explores the clash between a child’s pursuit of happiness and a mother’s overprotective nature. It follows a young man at a crossroads—torn between fulfilling his mother’s expectations or chasing his dream of becoming a musician and discovering what life truly has in store for him. This is a powerful and heartfelt narrative that resonates with dreamers and storytellers alike.

A chance encounter with “Mi Unico Hijo” director & cast

It was a delightful surprise to meet Director Edzel Rebomontan, actress Veronica Reyes and film editor Bel Paquiz of “Mi Unico Hijo” here in Cebu with CIFF trustees Lilu Alino and Marie Ernestine Denise Fajatin at The Chocolate Chamber of Raquel Choa, Cebu’s Chocolate Queen, where a ceremonial awarding was done. 

In an interview with this writer, Director Edzel revealed that this film, “Mi Unico Hijo” is self-funded just like his previous three films. He writes, directs and funds the production of his films and submits to competitions to secure funding.

“I write, direct and produce my own films and usually I defend the proposed cast and crew to potential financiers for the short film project to protect the integrity and creative freedom of my films,” Edzel told this writer.

He said that his films, “Taya” (2016) and “Tobero” (2019) and “Mi Unico Hijo” (2024) were all submitted to competitions and only “Mi Unico Hijo” won.  Edzel said, he shared the moment of discovery and the excitement of winning the award with his team.

Director Edzel shared the challenges of self-funding and the decision not to seek sponsorship to maintain creative freedom and control over their projects, including interference from producers and loss of creative control.

Casting and Character Selection 

Director Edzel bared that the casting of Veronica for the role of a mother in the film was recommended by a celebrity friend and was approved by the creative consultant.  Veronica expresses excitement about the role and the challenge of portraying a mother to a son in his late teens or early 20s.

She said that she looks up to her real mother and channels inspiration and is happy of the results. Veronica is transitioning to indie films for creative challenges and for the variety of roles and the passion behind them, despite the low budgets.

“I’m optimistic about the future of indie films, predicting increased appreciation and opportunities for international recognition,” she mentions a current project with Netflix, which is under a non-disclosure agreement, and her ongoing interest in indie films.

The “Mi Unico Hijo” team plans to write a short film feature and their dream of making a monster movie, that aims to push the Creature Feature genre beyond the horror genre and they are submitting the script to scriptwriting competitions for potential funding.

“The challenge still lies in defending the proposed cast and crew to financiers and maintaining creative control,” director Edzel said and expressed his appreciation to the CEBU.IFF for supporting diverse, risky and inclusive narratives in filmmaking and praises their approach to storytelling.

The role of the CEBU.IFF

The Cebu International Film Festival serves as the leading international platform to showcase world-class films while also promoting Philippine-produced narrative, documentary, and animated films to the rest of the world.

CEBU.IFF aims to gather global filmmakers to celebrate the art and craft of filmmaking, promoting valuable cross-cultural partnerships, and sharing inspirational stories across the globe.

CEBU.IFF provides companies with unique and effective opportunities to reach a network of diverse, local and global communities and gives visibility to Cebu and open possibilities for other audiences to see the islands.

It also aims to revive the Visayan film industry and further support the development of Philippine produced films that have a global reach through training and workshops by noted shakers in the industry, both local and global.

This will give credibility to Cebu's film industry including creative talents, film schools and film support services. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Private-Public collaboration vital for digital transformation in PH

CEBU CITY – A strong and solid collaboration from among the technology sector and the government is crucial for the digital transformation of the Philippines with the emergence of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), The Internet of Things, Hyper-connectivity.

 

“In the past years, I’ve been exploring technologies around the world that can be adapted and brought to the Philippines. As I traveled, I learned one hard truth: the Philippines is truly behind. While other countries are racing ahead with AI and automation, we are struggling to keep pace. Technology is not slowing down—and we need to catch up, fast,” Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy told the members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) as he hosted a Partners’ Night on April 7 being this year’s chair to talk about the upcoming 51^st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBCE). 

Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda recognized that the government cannot do this alone and this year mark a stronger public-private partnership as DICT pushes forward the priority pillars under DICT—Digital Economy, Infrastructure, Championing Data Privacy and Security, and Transparency in Government.

Aguda echoed Uy’s emphasis on the importance of robust infrastructure and meaningful connectivity. “There can never be digital transformation without strong infrastructure. And you can’t adopt AI and other digital solutions without reliable connectivity. Our bold aspiration is that, as we work together—whether it’s through fiber, mobile, low Earth orbit satellites, or high-altitude platforms—no nook or cranny in the country will be left unconnected."

According to Aguda that the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBCE), organized by the PCCI, is held on October 20–21, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center Manila. The event is expected to gather over 3,000 participants from across the Philippines to experience the latest in technological solutions for all types of businesses.

The 51^st PBCE is expected to bring together key government officials and global technology and business leaders, including Google, Cisco, AWS, Fortinet, Nokia, Huawei, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Salesforce, KT Satellite, BPI and others to showcase technologies and innovations that today’s SMEs can benefit from—such as cloud services, IT infrastructure management, and automated business processes.

“I enjoin our partners in the technology industry to come together and help us accelerate the country’s digital transformation. As the chairman of PCCI’s 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBCE) we will use the event as a catalyst for digital adoption and national progress,” Uy added.

Uy underscored the importance of partnerships with government agencies—particularly the DICT, DTI, and the DOST - in ensuring that an AI policy framework is established to help the Philippines leapfrog and remain globally competitive.

Uy also shared aspirations that align with the government’s goals around connectivity and digital information security, including the establishment of a sovereign cloud infrastructure to ensure that Filipino data remains within the country.

According to PCCI President Consul Enunina Mangio, the upcoming 51^st PBCE will serve as a powerful platform to accelerate technological advancement and inclusive economic growth across the nation.

“This demands collective action among all stakeholders—particularly government, business organizations, private enterprises, academic institutions, donor agencies, media, and civil society. The challenges we face require a unified approach. By working together, we can overcome them more efficiently and effectively,” Mangio said.

Lending support to the event are newly appointed Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST). (Photos: Converge/Rose Ann Respicio)

SM Supermalls expands EV charging network to enhance Holy Week travel

CEBU CITY – The SM Supermalls offers a worry-free Holy Week travel for Electric Vehicle (EV) owners with its growing network of 123 EV Charging Stations (EVCS) and plans are underway for another 50 more EVCS in 2025.

SM Supermalls, a Department of Energy (DOE)-accredited operator of EVCS, ensures its stations meet national standards, addressing infrastructure limitations and promoting EV adoption in line with DOE goals. This initiative positions SM as a key driver in the Philippines' low-carbon future.

Eco-friendly travel is easy with charging stations at SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM J Mall in Mandaue City, Cebu, SM City Cagayan de Oro (Downtown & Uptown), and SM Lanang in Davao. 

A 280km roundtrip between SM City CDO Downtown and SM Lanang in Davao avoids 0.035 tons of CO₂—equal to 3.9 gallons of gasoline or 38.5 pounds of coal—with no stopovers needed.

Rj Leduna, SM Supermalls Regional Public Relations Head for VisMin said that this expansion offers free charging at 69 SM malls, supporting eco-friendly journeys for northbound and southbound trips.

The use of EV reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), in the atmosphere, which leads to global warming. Their use has no direct emissions as compared to gasoline- or diesel-powered vehicles.

This Holy Week, #RechargeWithSM and experience the freedom of worry-free, eco-friendly travel, powered by SM Supermalls’ growing network. (Photos: SM Supermalls/RjLeduna)

Sotto, Lacson, Pacquiao, Villar join 'One Cebu' heritage campaign caravan in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Four of the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidates, Tito Sotto, Ping Lacson, Manny Pacquiao and Camille Villar joined the second leg of Governor Gwendolyn Garcia’s “One Cebu suroy-suroy” heritage and political campaign caravan on April 12-13, bringing national leaders directly to the people in the country’s most vote-rich province.

This was the second time Alyansa candidates have joined Governor Garcia’s “suroy-suroy,” following the March 27–29 leg in southern Cebu. The unique campaign format—part heritage tour, part grassroots consultation—allows for direct, informal conversations with local leaders and citizens.

The four senatorial candidates are among those endorsed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr and joined Garcia’s One Cebu Party in visiting over a dozen cities and towns, consistent with Alyansa’s commitment to community-based leadership and rural development.

Cebu is a formidable electoral force with over 3.4 million registered voters and Alyansa candidates’ presence in Cebu reflects its intensified efforts to solidify its Visayas base ahead of the May midterm elections.

Sotto, who has principally authored 259 laws, highlighted key legislation he championed for local development, including the calamity fund, family courts, the creation of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the Mental Health Act, and the “Doktor Para sa Bayan” law.

Sotto vowed to push for the institutionalization of the 14th month pay and the criminalization of fake news.  “If we institutionalize the 14th month pay, it can be given during June when parents pay tuition. I will file this again in the Senate. But I can’t do this alone. That’s why I ask for the support of Cebu—Ako Bisaya,” Sotto said.

Lacson, meanwhile, heaped praise on Governor Garcia, calling her one of the most admired and influential leaders in the Visayas. A former senator and longtime fiscal watchdog, Lacson committed to augmenting the budget of the Department of Tourism (DOT) if re-elected, in support of Cebu’s booming tourism sector.

“I am a great fan of Governor Gwen Garcia—not only because of her strong leadership but for bringing Cebu to where it is now. Your gross domestic product in 2023 hit P411 billion, up by six percent. That alone deserves congratulations,” Lacson said.

He said that if given the chance to return to the Senate, he’ll push for institutional amendments to strengthen the budget of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Cebu deserves continued support for tourism and development.

Pacquiao, a former senator and globally renowned boxing champion, brought his message of hope and service to Cebu, as he emphasized his fight against poverty and corruption.

Deputy Speaker Villar reaffirmed her commitment to public service, focusing on support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), job creation, and affordable housing.  “Nais ko pong ipagpatuloy ang mga nasimulan ng aking pamilya—ang pagtulong sa mga OFWs, ang pagbigay ng mas maraming trabaho at sapat na kita at siyempre, ang ating mura at libreng pabahay para sa lahat,” she said.

 

The Alyansa ticket also includes former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati City Mayor Abby Binay, Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Senator Pia Cayetano, Senator Lito Lapid, Senate Majority Leader Francis “Tol” Tolentino, and ACT-CIS Representative and former DSWD Secretary Erwin Tulfo. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

PhilHealth Statement on the 18% coverage

PhilHealth continues to be committed in its mandate to deliver Universal Health Care (UHC) for every Filipino. The latest Philippine National Health Account (2023) reports that 44.4% of the country’s Current Health Expenditure (CHE) was paid through out-of-pocket (OOP) means.

Meanwhile, the government — which not only includes PhilHealth services but as well as other health financing government initiatives such as the Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) — contributes 42.6%. Although this is an aggregated figure, we are cognizant of PhilHealth’s significant role in alleviating the still-heavy financial burdens that Filipinos face when accessing health services.

Hence, we have set out to reduce the OOP expenditure to around 25-35% over the next three (3) years, which would entail a series of regular reviews and refinement of our processes. For PhilHealth alone, this translates to an increase of the current CHE share to around 25-35% by 2028 — which necessitates focusing our benefit releases to prioritize high burden, and high cost diseases that commonly affect Filipinos, as evidenced by data.

This calls for alignment with our healthcare providers — professionals and institutions alike — to ensure preparedness for the implementation of benefits, allowing our members to promptly access care and financial risk protection. Benefits have been and will be expanded, but we need the health care supply-side to match these efforts.

Gayunpaman, nililinaw natin na ang kontribusyon ng PhilHealth sa CHE (o gastos pangkalusugan ng bansa) ay iba pa sa support value o halagang sinasagot ng PhilHealth sa bawat pagpapaospital o pagpapatingin ng ating mga myembro. Halimbawa, isa sa ating adhikain ay, sa susunod na tatlong taon, ang lahat ng maa-admit sa wards — publiko man o pribado — ay wala na dapat dagdag na babayaran sapagkat sakop na ito ng PhilHealth (100% support value). 

Ngunit, sa mas malawak na pambansang pananaw, maaaring ang 25-35% na gastos na manggagaling pa rin sa bulsa ng mga mamamayan ay napupunta sa iba pang serbisyong pangkalusugan gaya ng upgraded rooms at provider preference. Sa ating target na pagtaas ng kontribusyon ng PhilHealth sa CHE, atin nang labis na mapabababa ang panganib ng kahirapang dala ng gastos sa pagpapagamot para sa maraming pamilyang Pilipino.

However, reducing the OOP expenditure requires concerted, multisectoral efforts in strengthening the health system’s financing strategies. Kaya naman, patuloy rin po tayong nakikipag-tulungan sa iba’t ibang ahensya kabilang na ang Kagawaran ng Kalusugan (DOH), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Local Government Units (LGUs), at iba pa.

Only through synchronized efforts among government agencies could we successfully achieve health financial risk protection for every Filipino. Kaisa po kami ni Sen. Pia Cayetano sa hangaring bawasan ang gastusing pangmedikal na kailangan pang ilabas ng mga Pilipino mula sa kanilang bulsa. 

Kaya naman, kami ay direktang nakikipag-ugnayan sa opisina ng mahal na Senadora upang mas lalo pang paigtingin ang aming serbisyo. Makakaasa po kayong patuloy na naglilingkod ang PhilHealth upang sama-sama nating maiangat ang antas ng kalusugan sa isang Bagong Pilipinas.

A masterplan to make MCIA a world-class aviation, tourism and transfer hub for PH

LAPULAPU CITY—The Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) and Ricondo & Associates are now working on a comprehensive masterplan making Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) a world-class aviation, tourism and transfer hub for the Philippines.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Ricondo in elevating MCIA’s standards and planning for the future of our facilities and infrastructure. Our focus remains on being the main tourism and transfer gateway in the country by delivering an exceptional passenger experience, embracing sustainable practices, and ensuring operational excellence,” Athanasios Titonis, CEO of ACAC said, in his opening statement at the MOA signing in April this year.

The Master Plan is scheduled for completion by July 2025, marking a major milestone in MCIA’s evolution. This initiative is a crucial step toward fulfilling MCIA’s vision of becoming the Philippines’ primary tourism and transfer gateway, enhancing its role in international and domestic air travel, Titonis said.

The MCIA Masterplan is designed to anticipate and accommodate future air traffic growth by implementing a phased development strategy, allowing for a proactive approach to capacity expansion, ensuring that the airport evolves in line with increasing passenger demand, he added.

“We are delighted to support the ACAC team as they chart the path forward for Mactan Cebu International Airport. ACAC has a compelling vision for the airport, focused on delivering excellent service, facilitating growth in the local economy, and serving as a transfer hub for the wider region.  We look forward to helping shape the masterplan to realize the vision and position the airport and region for long-term sustainable growth,” Hendrik Orsinger, Director at Ricondo & Associates said during the MOA signing event.

This initiative follows the recent achievement of receiving the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for Best Airport in the 5 to 15 MPPA category in Asia-Pacific, a testament to MCIA’s commitment to world-class service. “Together with Ricondo, we are confident that this Master Plan will set a clear and ambitious roadmap for MCIA’s future,” Titonis stated.

With Cebu’s growing prominence as a strategic gateway for tourism and commerce, this initiative seeks to expand airport capacity, optimize operations, and integrate cutting-edge technology to provide an unparalleled passenger experience while boosting connectivity across the region.

The master plan is a vision for innovation, sustainability

Julius Neri, Jr., General Manager and Chief Executive office of Mactan Cebu Airport Authority (MCIAA) said that as the second busiest airport in the Philippines, MCIA continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s aviation industry.  

“With this comprehensive Master Plan, ACAC and Ricondo are setting new benchmarks in airport development, paving the way for MCIA to become a global leader in air travel,” Neri added.

According to Neri, this transformation aligns with MCIA’s strategic project, “Cebu Connects,” launched in June 2024 that aims to position Cebu as a premier transit hub for global travelers. The Cebu Connect project strengthens the airport’s connectivity with major international destinations and reinforces its reputation as the preferred gateway for tourists and business travelers visiting the Philippines.

Beyond infrastructure improvements, the plan places a strong emphasis on innovation, technology, and sustainability. MCIA aims to leverage state-of-the-art digital solutions, automation, and eco-friendly initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, streamline passenger movement, and reduce its carbon footprint.

As sustainability becomes a key priority for the aviation industry, MCIA is committed to adopting green airport initiatives, including energy-efficient infrastructure, eco-friendly design elements, and waste reduction programs. These measures align with global efforts to create more sustainable air travel experiences.

Enhancements to support facilities, security systems, and airport operations are also included, reinforcing MCIA’s competitive position in global aviation. (Photos: MCIA/Google Images)