Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in the central Philippines officially welcomed the holiday season with the ceremonial lighting of its Christmas tree on Thursday, December 4, at Terminal 1 Airport Village.
Embracing the theme A Christmas of Light and Hope for Every Home, the event transformed the terminal into a beacon of festive warmth, celebrating the enduring spirit of the Cebuano people and the joy of coming home.
The lighting ceremony was attended by government partners, airline partners, airport stakeholders, employees, and media partners, marking the start of a series of holiday activities designed to delight passengers.
For his part, MCIA Authority general manager and CEO Julius Neri Jnr declared that the event highlighted the importance of unity during the season.
Neri stated: “The lighting of our Christmas tree is a cherished tradition that brings the entire airport community together. It is a steadfast reminder that no matter where our passengers are headed or where they are returning from, the spirit of Cebu goes with them. We are proud to share this symbol of hope with the world, and we wish everyone a safe, seamless, and meaningful holiday season.”
As the entry point into the Philippines, MCIA serves as an emotional backdrop for thousands of reunions during the holidays. The event pays tribute to the airport’s role in connecting families and the shared resilience in every household.
Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation Chief Executive Athanasios Titonis emphasized the airport’s dedication to providing a welcoming atmosphere. “At MCIA, we strive to be more than just a transit point; we are a place where journeys connect and stories begin. This year’s theme, ‘A Christmas of Light and Hope for Every Home,’ reflects our commitment to bringing warmth, comfort, and positivity to every passenger passing through our gates. We want this tree to serve not just as a decoration, but as a beacon of optimism for the coming year,” he stated.
As part of traditional Filipino celebrations, the Simbang Gabi [evening votive Mass] will be celebrated nightly from December 15 to 23 at Terminal 1 Airport Chapel, inviting travelers and the airport community to commemorate the essence of Christmas.