MCIA asks support to get ‘Best Airport Staff’ award -

CEBU, Philippines — Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is rallying passengers and partners to support its bid for the Best Airport Staff award at the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2025.

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience, MCIA is actively campaigning for the award dubbed 'Abiba Sugbo,' which encourages the public to vote for MCIA in the Best Airport Staff category.

The voting of this 7-month campaign will start next month. As MCIA gears up for this campaign, the airport is seeking support from its partners and passengers to spread the word and garner votes.

“Skytrax is more than just an award-giving body. It’s an internationally respected airport rating system that sets the benchmark for global airport standards. By striving for a Skytrax award, we are positioning MCIA as a world-class transfer gateway in the Philippines,” said Aldwin Uy, deputy chief operations officer of Aboitiz InfraCapital GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (AGMCAC) during the launching of the campaign on Thursday, August 22, 2024.

“When we support international campaigns like this, we not only enhance our global presence but also potentially increase opportunities for new international routes to and from Cebu,” added Inaki Ponio, Jr., senior manager for Airline Marketing and Tourism Development at AGMCAC.

Athanasios Titonis, the chief executive officer of AGMCAC, highlighted the importance of the airport’s staff in their goal in making MCIA the top airport.

“The dedication of our airport staff plays a crucial role in our operations. Kudos to the Terminal 2 team for their outstanding performance! We are committed to going the extra mile to ensure the comfort and safety of our passengers,” he said.

Meanwhile, MCIA, which was recently awarded the prestigious Skytrax 4-Star Terminal rating, is now home to the visionary works of National Artist and the Father of Philippine Indie Cinema, Kidlat Tahimik (Eric Oteyza de Guia).

His unique art installations were unveiled last August 22, 2024 in the Terminal 2 International Departures Area, infusing the space with a creative and culturally rich atmosphere that enhances the passenger experience.

These installations, rooted in Cebu's vibrant cultural heritage, depict the untold stories of Magellan's historic expedition to Cebu.

Through these pieces, passengers can explore the  interactions between Magellan, his crew, and the indigenous Cebuano people, including the legendary figure of Lapu-Lapu.

Kidlat Tahimik's art brings to life these encounters, offering travelers a window into the island's rich heritage.

Crafted from authentic wood and stone, the art installations integrate natural elements with historical narratives.

The pieces not only serve as a tribute to Cebu's history but also as a reflection of the connection between the island's natural environment and its cultural identity.

Cosette Canilao, CEO and president of Aboitiz InfraCapital, expressed support for MCIA's commitment to enhancing the passenger journey through art.

“At MCIA, our vision is to create a world-class airport experience that is distinctly Filipino. Through this instaliation, we aim to offer MCIA passengers a moment to pause, reflect, and immerse themselves in our rich culture while ensuring their journey is comfortable and memorable,” Canilao said.

Titonis likewise highlighted the importance of sharing Cebu's cultural legacy with the world.

“Cebu's cultural roots go down deep. It is a story worth telling, especially to international passengers. Art is a tool to help them remember and appreciate the history and culture behind our province,” Titonis said. (CEBU NEWS)