Daily TribuneMactan-Cebu International Airport now offers shorter inter-island transfers to key Philippine destinations.
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SUNLIGHT Air aircraft arrives at Mactan-Cebu International Airport following the launch of new Manila–Siquijor flights via Cebu.
Photo from Macta-Cebu International Airport.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) continues to serve as a hub for inter-island travel, providing faster access to destinations best reached via Cebu.
Sunlight Air began non-stop flights to Siquijor on 15 December, giving travelers the only direct air link to the island. Known as the “Healing Island,” Siquijor draws visitors with white sand beaches, clear waters, and rich marine biodiversity. Tourism on the island is projected to generate P300 million by 2026, providing jobs and supporting local infrastructure.
MCIA’s air-to-air transfer service, CEB Connects, reduces connection times to 60 minutes for international flights and 35 minutes for domestic flights. This allows travelers to reach island destinations more efficiently.
Siargao, known for surfing and natural attractions, is also accessible via Cebu, with direct Sunlight Air flights from Manila and international connections. Meanwhile, San Vicente in Palawan, famous for its 14.7-kilometer white sand beach, can be reached via Cebu Pacific flights from MCIA, offering the only direct connection to the emerging tourist spot.
The airport is operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation under the AIC Airports network. MCIA serves as the country’s main connectivity hub, while Bohol-Panglao International Airport focuses on leisure travel and Laguindingan International Airport supports business and logistics access in Mindanao.
AIC is developing and modernizing its airport facilities, including BPIA and LIA, under multi-year government concession agreements. Projects aim to enhance the passenger experience and improve the competitiveness of Philippine airports.
