OWWA to expand OFW Lounge to more airports following positive response
After receiving favorable feedback on the OFW Lounge at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is set to establish similar lounges at international airports in Clark, Cebu-Mactan, and Davao.
The OFW Lounge at NAIA Terminal 3 was built by the New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) and later turned over to OWWA for management. A separate, smaller OFW Lounge at Terminal 1 was constructed by OWWA, but the NNIC-built facility is more modern and spacious.
Completed in September 2024, the lounge offers comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, charging stations, and power outlets for departing overseas Filipino workers. It also provides complimentary buffet-style meals and has an information desk to assist workers with travel-related inquiries. New hires can also connect with experienced OFWs to gain insights about working abroad.
Beyond expanding the OFW Lounge network, NNIC is deploying eight additional internal shuttle buses operating 24/7 to assist passengers transferring between terminals.
'NAIA is operating well beyond its capacity, and while major infrastructure upgrades are in progress, expanding our shuttle fleet is an invaluable step to ensure accessibility and convenience [of passengers],' said Ramon Ang, president of NNIC and San Miguel Corp. (SMC).
NNIC, led by SMC in partnership with South Korea's Incheon International Airport Corp. (IIAC), took over NAIA's management in September 2024. The consortium has committed P170 billion to modernize the airport, with plans to boost passenger capacity from 43 million to 62 million annually and increase aircraft movements from 42 to 48 per hour while ensuring efficient and safe operations.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Filipino Times
an hour ago
- Filipino Times
Al Maya honors Filipino spirit with tribute on Philippine Independence Day
Al Maya Group extends its warmest wishes to the Filipino community across the UAE and beyond as the Philippines marks its Independence Day on June 12 — a day that celebrates pride, unity, and the enduring spirit of the nation. Mr. Kamal Vachani, Group Director and Partner at Al Maya Group, shared his message on the occasion, 'We extend our heartfelt greetings to the wonderful Filipino community as they celebrate their Independence Day. The Philippines is a country rich in heritage, heart, and hospitality — values that deeply resonate with all of us at Al Maya.' For more than 35 years, Al Maya has proudly served as a bridge between cultures by bringing the authentic taste of the Philippines to shelves across the UAE. From household staples to ethnic delicacies, Filipino products have been a key part of the Group's diverse retail offering, and Filipino customers remain a vital part of Al Maya's journey. 'Our connection with the Filipino community is strong and special,' added Mr. Vachani. 'We're honored to serve generations of loyal customers from the Philippines, and we look forward to building on this legacy with even more dedication and care.' In celebration of this important day, Al Maya Supermarkets will feature special in-store displays highlighting Filipino brands and traditional favorites, turning shopping into a celebration of home for many. Al Maya Group remains committed to championing diversity, strengthening community ties, and honoring the many cultures that enrich life in the UAE. About Al Maya Group Established in 1982, Al Maya Group has grown to become a leading retail conglomerate in the UAE and GCC. With over 50 supermarkets and 25 Borders bookstores, the group employs more than 3,000 people from 30 different countries across its multiple business verticals.
Filipino Times
an hour ago
- Filipino Times
DMW, DOF launch financial literacy drive for OFWs and families
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Finance (DOF) have teamed up to roll out financial literacy programs aimed at helping Filipinos working abroad and their families manage their money better. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto met in Manila to discuss how the government can provide long-term financial support to migrant families. The joint effort will provide guidance on government-backed savings and investment options such as MP2 savings, SSS investments, retail treasury bonds, equity funds, and exchange-traded funds. 'This initiative will empower OFWs to protect their hard-earned money—whether they send it home, invest it, or use it for important purchases,' Cacdac said. Recto explained that understanding financial concepts like exchange rates and inflation can help overseas workers make better money decisions. 'They should understand how exchange rates, tariffs, and market conditions affect their purchasing power and savings,' he said. Financial literacy teams are expected to be deployed to major OFW hubs in the Middle East by November. In a related move, Recto also signed a Joint Administrative Order with the DMW and the Bureau of Customs to protect Filipinos in the shipping sector from scams and fraudulent practices.
Hi Dubai
5 hours ago
- Hi Dubai
Emirates Launches Free Coach Service for Economy Passengers Fying from Clark
Emirates has introduced a complimentary coach service for Economy Class passengers traveling to and from Clark International Airport, aiming to improve convenience for Filipino travelers based in Metro Manila and nearby regions. Starting today, the new service links Trinoma in Quezon City with Clark International Airport in Pampanga, offering a seamless transit option for Emirates Economy passengers. Pickups and drop-offs will operate from the New Genesis P2P Trinoma Bus Terminal (TRP) and the airport terminal in Clark. Available exclusively to Economy Class travelers holding Emirates-issued tickets starting with '176,' the coach service requires a confirmed reservation at least 48 hours prior to departure. Passengers without a valid Emirates ticket or prior coach booking will not be permitted to board. To secure a seat on the coach, customers must indicate Trinoma (TRP) as their departure or arrival city when booking flights on Those booking through a travel agent or Emirates office should request the bus service be added before ticket issuance. This move reflects Emirates' ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and elevate the travel experience for its Filipino customers, particularly those traveling from Metro Manila to Clark. News Source: Emirates
