Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has welcomed a new international flight from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) which took off starting 7 April 2025.

This marks the first-ever direct air link between Central Visayas and Vietnam, boosting regional connectivity, and fostering stronger economic and cultural ties between the two regions.

“We are thrilled to welcome Cebu Pacific’s new Cebu-Ho Chi Minh route,” said Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AICAC), chief executive officer for MCIA Athanasios Titonis.

“This milestone underscores MCIA’s commitment to expanding our international network and solidifying Cebu’s position as a key hub in Southeast Asia. We look forward to strengthening ties between the Philippines and Vietnam through enhanced air connectivity.”

The new service will operate three times a week, with flights departing Cebu every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. This schedule offers convenient options for both business and leisure travelers. To celebrate the launch, Cebu Pacific is offering promotional fares, including their renowned Piso Sale, making travel more accessible to a broader audience.

MCIA chief airline marketing officer Mark Souter echoed the initiative as “This new route is a testament to the increasing demand for international travel from Cebu. The addition of Ho Chi Minh City to our network opens new opportunities for tourism, trade and investment, benefiting both destinations.

Direct service

Senior manager for Airline Marketing and Tourism Development Rodante Ponio Jr. added, “With the launch of this direct service, we expect to see a surge in Vietnamese visitors exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of Cebu and the entire Visayas region. Likewise, Filipino travelers now have a more convenient way to experience the vibrant and historic city of Ho Chi Minh.”

Travelers can look forward to exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s rich history, vibrant culture and culinary delights. Conversely, travelers from Vietnam will find Cebu and the Central Visayas region offering pristine beaches, world-class diving spots and unique cultural experiences.

The new route underscores MCIA’s vision of positioning Cebu as the main tourism gateway in the Philippines, strengthening its position as a premier international hub. By directly connecting Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City, MCIA enhances global accessibility, attracting more tourists, investors and businesses in the region.

This initiative supports Cebu’s growing reputation as a top destination, offering world-class hospitality, rich cultural experiences and seamless travel connections that reinforce its role as the heart of Philippine tourism.