More OFW lounges in Philippines airports sought

MANILA, Philippines — The administration of President Marcos is determined to give back, through comfortable lounges, to overseas Filipino workers by “institutionalizing” 24/7 free OFW lounges in all international airports in the country, a senior administration lawmaker said.

Zamboanga Sibugay 1st District Rep. Wilter Palma, an OFW advocate, filed House Bill 7065 or the OFW Resting Lounge Act to institutionalize the establishment of areas where departing OFWs can relax and enjoy.

“This bill seeks to institutionalize the provision of dedicated resting lounges within key airports by offering an area where OFWs can find comfort, assistance and a moment of respite amidst the challenges of international travel,” the House deputy majority leader said.

Palma thanked Speaker Martin Romualdez and Marcos for supporting his advocacy.

“The Speaker’s swift action paved the way for the urgent establishment of the lounge in coordination with OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration), DMW (Department of Migrant Workers), MIAA (Manila International Airport Authority) under President Marcos and the House to immediately address the needs of OFWs,” he said.

The VIP lounge at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 is “free of charge” for OFWs, Romualdez said, and a similar space is being prepared at NAIA Terminal 3.

The lounge is patterned after spaces run by airlines for their business-class and first-class passengers who pay more than economy-class riders, he added.

Romualdez said OFWs would enjoy the amenities of an airline lounge, such as an assistance desk; comfortable seating; Wi-Fi; charging stations and power outlets; food, including lugaw or porridge, sandwiches and drinks.

The OFW lounge, he noted, is a joint project of the House, OWWA, DMW and MIAA.