TIM eMagazine Vol.3 Issue 12
guests inspired us to bring this event once more to our
shores. And we were thinking, what better place to host
this event than Cebu?" DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-
Puyat asked.
With delegates being ushered in the arched timber
terminal reception of the Mactan-Cebu International
Airport (MCIA), they experienced the warm welcome of
Filipino specifically from the Cebuanos complimented
with amenities and festive welcome performances.
"I am in agreement with our President Rodrigo Roa
Duterte when he said that with its elegance and resort-
like feel, the gateway (MCIA) dubbed as the only "Resort
Airport in Asia", is definitely the most beautiful airport in
the country today," Secretary Puyat added.
"Beyond the nice wood, the glass, the concrete, the
airport really is a physical symbol of confidence in the
market and in the destination. It's a physical symbol of the
confidence of the aviation community, the travel trade,
and what Cebu has to offer," Undersecretary for Tourism
Development Benito Bengzon Jr. shared during the press
conference.
Members of the aviation community joined pre-event
tours around the Queen City of the South, Cebu City,
visiting heritage and cultural destinations including the
Magellan's Cross and Fort de San Pedro.
Other delegates went for the destination's sun and
beach Mactan island hopping tour at Hilutungan and
Nalusuan Islands.
A number of delegates also feasted their eyes on the
world-renowned Chocolate Hills, met the smallest primate
at the Tarsier Santuary, and cruised the Loboc River in
Bohol.
An exclusive tour for the airlines executives and charter
operators also showcased the best of the Central Visayas
region.
"This new gateway (MCIA) connects Cebu not only to the
entire Philippines but to the world..The MCIA is the reason
why our visitors have better access to the pristine beaches
and a whole lot of fun activities that Cebu has to offer,"
Puyat added.
On the other hand, MCIAA General Manager Steve
Dicdican explained during the event press conference that
"what makes Cebu different from all the other destinations
is the friendliness..In our airport, we want to match that
Pre-event tours for the delegates
featuring Cebu City, Mactan
Islands, and Bohol
49