Philippine’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport Terminal 2 features a 3,600 m² ETFE canopy – lightweight, transparent, and weather-resistant for tropical arrival zones.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport
The Mactan-Cebu International Airport’s expanded Terminal 2 features a substantial architectural upgrade – a canopy system built with ETFE that covers the passenger drop-off area and the connecting bridge to the new terminal building.
Project Overview
Philippines
Country
3599
m²
of ETFE
2018
Completed
Integrated Design Associates, with local designers
Architects
At a Glance – ETFE at Mactan-Cebu International Airport
- 3,600 m² two-layer ETFE canopy covering the drop-off zone and connection bridge
- Provides sun, rain, and weather protection while preserving visibility and openness
- Lightweight cladding reduces steel structure mass and embodied energy
- Large ETFE panels allow minimal structural interruption and clean architectural lines
- Engineered for tropical climate resilience including high wind and rainfall exposure
- Delivered and installed by Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific
3,599 m²
of ETFE
Shelter, Transparency and Structural Efficiency
The canopy comprises a 3,600 m², two-layer ETFE system that spans the arrival and drop-off zones, plus the pedestrian link bridge to the terminal. The transparency of the ETFE foil ensures that natural light reaches the area below, while sheltering arriving passengers from sun, rain, and changing tropical weather. This creates a welcoming, climate-adapted entry experience for travelers arriving in the Philippines.
Thanks to ETFE’s low weight compared with conventional glass or heavy roofing, the supporting steel structure could be kept minimal. This reduces the amount of steel required, simplifies structural design, and lowers the environmental footprint of the canopy – without sacrificing durability or design clarity.
Do you want to build an ETFE project in the Philippines?
We offer local support and are happy to assist you in every stage of your project: From design, engineering to structural engineering.
Matthew Penrose
Executive Vice President | Asia Pacific
Designed for Tropical Conditions and Durability
a canopy system built with ETFE that covers the passenger drop-off area and the connecting bridge to the new terminal building
Given the location’s exposure to tropical weather and potential extreme wind loads during typhoons, the ETFE canopy was engineered with regional climate in mind. The materials and construction techniques were selected to ensure resistance to harsh weather, while maintaining transparency and daylighting.
The choice of ETFE allowed for large panel sizes, fewer structural interruptions, and reliable performance in challenging conditions.
Visual Journey
3,600 m² ETFE canopy – lightweight, transparent, and weather-resistant for tropical climate zones.
Click on the pictures to see the full size
Integrated Design and Execution by Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific
Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific managed the design, supply, and installation of the ETFE canopy and supporting steelwork. Their involvement ensured that engineering, fabrication, and onsite installation met both architectural and climatic requirements – delivering a lightweight yet robust envelope for what has become one of the busiest terminals in the country.
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