Despite facing significant industry challenges, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) recorded a notable increase in passenger traffic last year. As the nation’s second busiest airport, MCIA welcomed approximately 11.6 million travelers in 2025, according to official data. This figure represents a 3% growth from the 11.3 million passengers served in 2024.
Domestic Travel Remains Key Growth Driver
The sustained rise was primarily fueled by robust domestic travel. Specifically, this growth was supported by new nonstop routes and enhanced connectivity introduced throughout the year. Notably, the airport launched exclusive direct flights to Siquijor via Sunlight Air and to San Vicente, Palawan via Cebu Pacific, providing travelers with more convenient access to these popular destinations.
Strengthening Cebu’s Role as a Major Gateway
According to the airport operator, Aboitiz GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (AGMCAC), the passenger increase reflects Cebu’s expanding role as a primary gateway to the central and southern Philippines. To solidify this position, MCIA introduced three flagship programs in the prior year: CEB Connects, CEB+, and CEB Balik.
Here is how each initiative enhances the travel experience:
- CEB Connects facilitates faster and seamless air-to-air transfers between international and domestic flights.
- CEB+ offers streamlined air-to-sea transfers from MCIA to Mactan Wharf for passengers traveling to nearby islands.
- Meanwhile, CEB Balik features a dedicated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) facilitation kiosk. This program aims to establish MCIA as the primary OFW gateway for the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
