16 & 17 September 2024 – The Mactan Airport Crash and Rescue Exercise (MACREX) 2024 was conducted to enhance airport preparedness and ensure compliance with national and international civil aviation safety standards. On September 16, 2024, the Passenger Welfare Exercise focused on managing the accommodation and reunification of surviving passengers, their families, and friends in the event of an emergency. The exercise showcased MCIAA’s capability to handle information intake, accommodation, and the release of affected passengers. On September 17, 2024, the Aircraft Crash and Rescue Exercise simulated an aircraft crash scenario, testing the readiness of emergency responders in fire suppression, medical triage, and evacuation procedures to save lives and minimize damage.

The event, spearheaded by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority in coordination with its private partner Aboitiz GMCAC, was responded by hundreds of responders and volunteers from Lapu-Lapu City Rescue, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Air Force, Philippine National Police, Philippine Red Cross, Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation, Cubacub Emergency Response Unit, Cordova DRRMO, along with Office of Civil Defense, various airlines and ground handlers. This collaboration demonstrates the commitment of all stakeholders to ensuring the highest standards of safety and preparedness in responding to emergencies at MCIA.