MCIA rolls out “Sinulog Homecoming” surprises for guests arriving Cebu

LAPULAPU CITY – The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is all decked up with the Sinulog banderettas, flaglets and images of the Santo Nino welcoming arriving passengers and balikbayans from January 15-18 specifically at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 arrivals to bring the Sinulog spirit to travelers arriving in Cebu.

 

Dubbed as the Balik Cebu program, an annual tourism and cultural initiative that welcomes Cebuano balikbayans (overseas Filipinos) and visitors to celebrate their heritage and traditions, particularly during the Sinulog Festival.

This is the 24th Balik Cebu Program that kicked off on January 15 where more than 1,000 passengers from five international flights and one domestic flight were warmly received at Mactan-Cebu International Airport’s Terminals 1 and 2 through the Balik-Cebu Welcome Reception.

The arriving passengers were greeted with Sinulog dancers, drum beaters, and festive airport decorations. Free sorbetes stations were set up at arrival information desks, while official MCIA fan merchandise was distributed to passengers, subject to availability. 

The Sinulog Homecoming activities at the MCIA aims to create a festive and welcoming atmosphere for visitors and returning Cebuanos, reinforcing Cebu’s reputation as a major cultural and tourism destination during the Sinulog celebration.

Most activities focus more on community-centered activities and support for communities affected by recent disasters.  The program aims to reconnect Cebuanos from all over the world with their roots, culture, and community.

Led by Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, MCIAA General Manager and CEO Julius Neri, Jr., with Department of Tourism OIC Regional Director Gelena Asis Dimpas, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation and the Balik Cebu Committee, the program celebrated the arrival of balikbayans and guests just in time for the Sinulog festivities.

MCIA also partnered with several brands for on-site activations, including Grab, Globe, Smart, Mang Inasal, Cebu Pacific, AboitizLand, Redland Properties, NUSTAR, Erceflora, Jollibee (SSP), Kultura, and My Islands. These activations are part of efforts to enhance the arrival experience and celebrate the Sinulog season with travelers.

Balik-Cebu program key features include the Balik Cebu Passport, a guidebook offering access to various events and promotions; Sinulog Survival Kits, essentials like festival shirts and snacks for balikbayans; Cultural Performances showcasing Cebu's rich history and traditions and other community activities emphasizing togetherness and shared resilience.

Events and Activities also include welcoming ceremonies at MCIA, cultural shows and performance, food festivals featuring local cuisine with designated viewing areas for seniors and families with young children.  Airport officials said the activities will continue daily until January 18, coinciding with the peak of Sinulog festivities across Cebu.

“As the country’s second-busiest gateway, MCIA plays a vital role in this effort, serving as the first point of welcome for thousands of travelers arriving for the Sinulog season. MCIAA exemplifies Cebu’s commitment to providing a seamless, safe, and memorable journey—ensuring that every arrival truly feels like coming home,” said MCIAA GM/CEO Julius Neri, Jr. (Photos: MCIA official/FB & Google Images)