PHILIPPINES: A new OFW Lounge is set to open at the Mactan Cebu International Airport this June, giving overseas Filipino workers another dedicated space before or after their flights.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration said its team recently visited Cebu and met with partner Aboitiz InfraCapital as preparations continue for the opening of the new facility.
The project is under the direction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and with the guidance of Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.
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Cebu OFWs to Get a Dedicated Airport Space
The new lounge is designed to give OFWs a more comfortable and organized waiting area inside Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
For many workers, airport travel can be stressful, especially during long lines, flight delays, or connecting trips.
A dedicated OFW Lounge can help provide a more welcoming space for migrant workers who are leaving for work abroad or returning home.
OWWA said the facility aims to bring government services closer to OFWs, especially those using Cebu as their travel point.
OWWA e-Card Facility to Be Available
Aside from providing a comfort area, the Cebu OFW Lounge will also include an OWWA e-Card facility.
This will help OFWs access or process their OWWA e-Card more easily. The e-Card is important because it helps qualified OWWA members access benefits, programs, and services.
For OFWs who may have limited time before flying, having this facility at the airport can make the process more convenient.
Third OFW Lounge Under Alagang OWWA
The Cebu facility will be the third OFW Lounge operated by OWWA under the Alagang OWWA program.
The first two are located at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
With the Cebu lounge, more OFWs outside Metro Manila may have easier access to a dedicated airport support space. This is especially helpful for workers from Central Visayas, nearby provinces, and those who prefer flying through Cebu instead of Manila.
What OFWs Should Watch For
OWWA has not yet announced the exact opening date within June. OFWs planning to travel through Cebu airport should wait for official updates from OWWA before expecting the facility to be fully available.
