OFW Party List Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino filed House Resolution 1305 today urging the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives to conduct an inquiry into the establishment of lounges dedicated to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in various international airports across the country.
“The establishment of OFW lounges within various international airports across the nation can feasibly be achieved through administrative means by collaborating with airport authorities and relevant line departments. This approach typically entails minimal budgetary requirements. What steps have been taken to achieve this? It’s important to note that while legislation remains a possible avenue for this purpose, it is not the preferred option. The preference leans towards administrative action, contingent upon the responsiveness of the concerned authorities to the growing demand for these essential facilities.” said Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino.
Acknowledging that OFWs play a pivotal role in the Philippine economy, with their remittances alone amounting to a staggering USD 36.16 billion in 2022, as reported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, OFW Party List Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino filed HR 1305 to urge the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives to create an OFW lounge that offers amenities tailored to the specific needs of Overseas Filipino Workers. These amenities include Wi-Fi connectivity for communication and information access, battery charging docks, power outlets, a passenger assistance desk, and a comfortable environment conducive to relaxation. This must also encompass sleeping quarters and changing rooms to ensure OFWs can rest and refresh during their travels. This is especially significant in case of delayed or canceled flights, particularly those caused by operational issues like power outages and navigational glitches, where OFWs need a facility where they can rebook flights and find respite during extended layovers.
“International flight passengers, particularly Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), are required to complete their check-in procedures several hours prior to their scheduled departure. This necessitates the provision of a dedicated holding area or lounge where these individuals can unwind in comfort and make efficient use of their waiting time before embarking on their outbound journey. Additionally, such a facility is equally vital to offer respite and relaxation to OFWs upon their return from international flights, providing them with a tranquil environment to recuperate after their inbound travels.”, said Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino.
Currently, there are seven operational international airports in the Philippines through which outbound and inbound OFWs may pass. These include the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila, the New Clark International Airport in Pampanga, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao, the General Santos International Airport in Sarangani Province, the Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte, and the Zamboanga International Airport.
The New Clark International Airport in Pampanga opened an OFW lounge in August 2021 within its new 4-level terminal, while the Manila International Airport Authority announced its intent to establish an OFW lounge in Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in January 2023. However, no specific timeline for implementation has been provided.
