MEGAWIDE.COM.PHTHE Department of Tourism (DoT) is expecting the establishment of the first parallel runway at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) to boost tourism in Central Visayas.
DoT Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina G. Frasco said that the expanded runway will not only strengthen Cebu’s position as a top tourist destination but also boost tourism in Central Visayas by improving accessibility for international and domestic visitors.
According to the DoT, the runway is meant to enhance aviation safety, allow the accommodation of larger aircraft, and improve airport operational efficiency.
“Increasing flight frequencies and passenger capacity up to 18 million at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport through the parallel runway benefits all stakeholders in the aviation and tourism sectors,” said Ms. Frasco.
“This influx would not only bolster the local economy but also promote cultural exchange and foster greater global connectivity,” she added.
She said that the runway will also help in growing the province’s dive tourism and meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE).
“More importantly, this could support Cebu’s major tourism events and festivals, such as the Sinulog Festival,” she added.
In 2024, the MCIA admitted around 11.32 million passengers, representing a 13% increase from 2023. These comprise 8.51 million domestic passengers and 2.81 million international passengers. — Justine Irish D. Tabile
