CEBU — The Mactan Cebu International Airport Aviation Authority confirmed Saturday that an aircraft operated by Cebu Pacific made a return landing earlier that morning when it encountered “landing gear” issues.

Flight 5J 588 was bound for Manila and made a return landing to the Cebu airport at 5:29 a.m.

“MCIAA and its partner agencies promptly coordinated with Cebu Pacific and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the passengers, crew, and airport operations, ensuring that all protocols were followed,” the statement read.

Passenger Remton Zuasola narrates that they were told to “remove all sharp objects and brace for impact”.

“They made a clear announcement. We’re thankful for how they handled it,” said Zuasola in a message to ABS-CBN News.

All passengers were taken care of and were transferred to a replacement aircraft that departed from Mactan-Cebu International at 7:09 a.m.

It safely landed in Manila at 8:04 a.m..

“The safety and security of all passengers and personnel remain our top priority, and we extend our gratitude to all involved for their swift response,” added the airport.

Passengers, including nuns in the earlier flight thanked the pilot and the crew for their safe emergency landing.

Cebu Pacific has yet to issue a statement on the incident.