There will be no flight cancellations, although delays are expected, as the arrivals of heads of state and their delegations will entail strict protocols that may lead to congestion, said Julius Neri, general manager and CEO of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA).
“There are particular protocols that come with the arrival of aircraft carrying the different heads of state, so it might cause some delays. My suggestion to everyone is to plan your trip accordingly because there will be delays,” he said during a news conference on April 20.
Based on the latest report, Neri said three heads of state will arrive via commercial flights, while the rest will travel on private aircraft. Each will be accompanied by a security team following specific protocols, with some members arriving in advance and others traveling with their leaders.
Neri said some heads of state are expected to arrive on May 6, while others will arrive the next day. Their advance teams, however, will already be in Cebu between May 3 and 4, with some arriving as early as late April.
Preparations
The MCIAA, along with the airport’s private operator, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corp. (ACAC), is gearing up for the ASEAN Summit to ensure a seamless, secure, and world-class arrival and departure experience for heads of state and international delegates.
Preparations are being carried out in coordination with various agencies, including the ASEAN National Organizing Committee (NOC), the Department of Tourism, Department of Transportation, Bureau of Customs, and other law enforcement and security units.
“Our teams are executing a comprehensive operational plan to ensure our infrastructure and services are fully ready. From refreshing our VIP lounges to fine-tuning airside operations, we are focused on delivering a seamless experience while maintaining the comfort of regular passengers,” said Ricia Montejo, MCIA general manager under ACAC.
Neri said that through coordination with ACAC, the local government, and national security agencies, meticulous protocols have been put in place to reflect Cebuano hospitality.
“We are fully prepared to welcome our Southeast Asian neighbors with warmth while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence,” he added.
Infrastructure improvements
The MCIAA has undertaken key site enhancements and infrastructure projects to ensure operational readiness and a world-class airport environment.
These include improvements to the General Aviation Terminal Building and its perimeter fence, restoration of water tanks, upgrades to the water supply, and repainting of apron pavement markings and perimeter fences.
The MCIAA has also designated aircraft parking positions to ensure efficient airside operations and accommodate ASEAN-related flights.
Further developments include the concreting and widening of the Ibo Access Road, along with the installation of street lighting and landscape enhancements to improve landside access and overall airport aesthetics.
In addition, MCIAA, in partnership with TIEZA, has installed an LED wall in the General Aviation area, as well as lamp post banners and signage across the MCIA vicinity.
ACAC is also implementing critical enhancements, including designated areas in Terminals 1 and 2 for ASEAN vehicles, lighting upgrades, power supply improvements in lounges, and ramp repainting.
Support local
MCIAA has procured ASEAN uniforms for liaison officers and officials, sourced from Hinablon sa Argao—a community-based initiative under Cebu Technological University–Argao Campus—and Liong Garments, a Cebu-based manufacturer.
Accessories were crafted by local shell artisans from the Mactan Shrine Souvenir Vendors Association, showcasing Cebu’s culture and craftsmanship.
Preparations also focus on creating strong first impressions through:
—Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
Contributor
