To boost Mactan Airport capacity: P2.3 bilyong runway inaugurated
CEBU, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. inaugurated the over P2-billion alternate runway of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in Lapu-Lapu City on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
Marcos led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting of the new 2,560-meter-long, 45-meter-wide infrastructure project, marking the last of his four engagements in Cebu during his first visit of the year.
He was accompanied by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, and MCIAA General Manager Julius Neri Jr.
“This new runway at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport reflects the very essence of Cebu: it is dynamic, promising, and always ready to take on challenges. And just as Cebu has been a center of trade and tourism, this parallel runway symbolizes the unrelenting drive to connect, to grow, and to lead,” Marcos said in his speech.
MCIA’s Neri disclosed that the new runway will significantly boost the airport’s capacity, allowing it to accommodate more domestic and international flights, with an expected 25 percent increase in flight volume.
Currently, with just one runway, the airport can accommodate 30 flights per hour, including both arrivals and departures. Neri emphasized the crucial role of the aviation industry in driving economic development and tourism in the country.
“Thus, the parallel runway, which will increase our capacity to accept both foreign and local tourists, will also improve the safety of our airport amidst the challenges of the aviation industry. This is very important to the province of Cebu and all its component cities,” Neri said.
In her speech, Governor Garcia expressed pride in the new runway, calling it another milestone for Cebu.
“Wala nay laing airport karon nga adunay parallel runway. Napuno na usab kini nga garbo natong mga Sugbuanon because it’s right here in our beloved island of Cebu,” said the governor.
The alternate runway was deemed necessary to address the growing air traffic demand and ensure smooth operations as passenger and cargo volumes continue to rise.
Last year, the President noted that MCIA catered to 8.5 million domestic passengers, nearly three million international passengers, around 67 million kilograms of cargo, and nearly 100,000 flights.
“This airport has been instrumental not only in the development of this province but also of the Central Visayas region and other provinces served by flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. And in those, we must include the destinations of the feeder flights—not only to the Visayas region but down to Mindanao and even back up to Luzon,” the President said.
According to Neri, MCIA’s current runway is nearing capacity, particularly during peak hours. The additional runway will help prevent congestion while supporting future growth.
As the first and only parallel runway in the Philippines, Marcos emphasized that this new infrastructure represents a bold step forward in enhancing Cebu’s competitiveness, connectivity, and capacity to welcome visitors.
“This milestone would not have been possible without the firm determination of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority, the unwavering support of all stakeholders, and the dedication of all partners working together to achieve this great accomplishment. Amidst the immense challenges of the pandemic, each of you exemplified the strength and ingenuity of the Filipino people. Because despite health risks and uncertainties, you pressed on with courage and commitment, striving for the completion of this very important runway,” the President said.
With the inauguration of the new runway, Marcos highlighted how Cebu once again leads in infrastructure development.
“And as I was commenting to the Governor on our way over here, nauna na naman, inunahan na naman ng Cebu ang Maynila dahil matagal na nating pinaplano ‘yung sa Maynila. Pinag-uusapan pa lang ‘yung sa Maynila, tapos na ‘yung nandito sa Cebu Mactan,” said the President.
Marcos further praised Cebu, noting its unique balance of history and progress.
“It’s a place where history and progress come together very gracefully, where tradition converges with innovation, and where the grit and tenacity of its people shine brightly in every achievement.
Today, we celebrate a new victory in Cebu’s remarkable and ongoing story—one that shows why this province continues to inspire hope and progress for other provinces and certainly for the entire nation,” the President said.
With the inauguration of the parallel runway, Marcos emphasized that this development aligns perfectly with the preparations to undertake critical repairs on the airport’s first runway starting in May.
By 2028, he said the parallel runway is expected to be fully operational alongside the original runway, ensuring greater efficiency and capacity to meet the demands of a rapidly growing aviation industry.
“With two runways running full-time, the airport will have the capacity to cater to up to 18 million passengers a year,” Marcos said.
Neri added that the new runway is currently in the process of commissioning and will be operational very soon. Once fully operational, the new runway will allow for the repair and rehabilitation of the main runway.
Neri further noted that once both runways are in simultaneous operation, the airport will see a significant capacity increase, expected to exceed 25 percent. While the airport has not yet reached its maximum capacity, Cebu has proactively planned for future growth.
“Mr. President, please consider this parallel runway as our modest contribution to your Build Better More infrastructure development program,” Neri said.
He also assured the President that under the leadership and guidance of Governor Garcia, and with the full support of a united Cebu Province, they will continue to highlight and showcase the very best that Cebu has to offer and make the Philippines proud.
Marcos emphasized that this achievement is just a glimpse of the broader developments in airport infrastructure under his administration, aligning with his vision for national progress.
“This vision is anchored in the principles of good governance and a collective desire to uplift the lives of our people—recognizing that progress in connectivity translates to progress in opportunities,” the President added. — /ATO (FREEMAN)
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