Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has become the first airport in the Philippines to join the Asia Pacific and Middle East Regional Operational Safety Committee (ROSC) of Airports Council International (ACI), a move aimed at strengthening its adherence to international aviation safety standards.

The membership places MCIA alongside major airports across the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions in advancing safety initiatives, exchanging operational best practices, and contributing to strategies designed to improve aviation safety and resilience.

According to airport operator Aboitiz InfraCapital, MCIA’s participation in the committee supports its efforts to maintain world-class airport operations while reinforcing the Philippines’ position as a growing regional aviation and tourism hub.

The airport said the membership will provide opportunities for closer collaboration with airline partners and industry stakeholders on emerging operational challenges, safety priorities, and developments affecting the aviation sector.

MCIA added that participation in the ROSC will allow the airport to benchmark its practices against those of leading airports in the region and further enhance operational reliability and efficiency.

For travelers, the initiative is expected to support safer, more efficient, and seamless airport experiences through the adoption of internationally recognized standards and continuous operational improvements.

MCIA, one of the country’s busiest international gateways, said it remains committed to investments that strengthen passenger confidence, improve airport operations, and support the long-term growth of air connectivity in the Philippines and the broader region.

Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, operates MCIA, the Laguindingan International Airport in Northern Mindanao, and the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. The company said these gateways play a key role in expanding regional connectivity, increasing direct international access, and supporting tourism growth across the country.