A recent Facebook post by Filipino influencer Ion Gonzaga, known as Boy Dubai, has ignited public concern over the exclusion of OFW dependents from the newly launched OFW Lounge and priority immigration lanes at NAIA.
One netizen shared his frustration, writing, “Bro, I deliberately looked for your post about the lounge and wanted to share from recent experience that both the OFW Lounge and Immigration Lane do not allow immediate families or dependents of OFWs even if traveling together (e.g. kids).” He added that they were forced to argue with airport staff who were merely following orders. “Isn’t it logical that in order to make things more convenient for OFWs, and all the more those with kids, the DMW or any government body should be more considerate with our needs?”
The family was ultimately directed to the regular lane, rendering the “priority” experience meaningless. “It defeats the purpose. Napakaraming OFW bitbit ang anak sa abroad,” the sender emphasized.
Gonzaga captioned his post, “HOW IRONIC… In most parts of the world, dependents or families are often given priority, yet based on this experience by our kababayan, dependents of OFWs are asked to line up separately, worse, not allowed to stay in the OFW Lounge.”
He called on the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to look into the issue. “This isn’t about wanting ‘special treatment’ okay. It’s empathy (and common sense),” Gonzaga added.
Community voices echo the same frustrations
The post drew reactions from fellow OFWs across the globe who have encountered the same dilemma:
“Before going for vacation last July with my family, I already raised the question to DMW and OWWA kung pwede ba pumasok ang dependent. Now I know… E mas dapat nga bigyan priority ang may kasamang bata,” said Juan in Oman.
JC Castro suggested that a more compassionate policy could be adopted: “There should be a set rule like 1 complimentary free, a certain age-below should be allowed free… Immigration lane I agree because it doesn’t cost anything.”
Another OFW, Net Javier, shared: “We attempted to go to that lane. We were denied kasi may baby kaming dala. Dalwa kaming OFW.”
Joe Brazal Alonzo added his personal experience: “Akala ko magiging smooth na kasi same kaming OFW ni wife pero dahil sa baby namin na walang OEC kahit naka-residence visa naman, nag-end-up na sa international traveler section ng immigration kami napuntang tatlo.”
The OFW Lounge, launched by the DMW and OWWA in NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 earlier this year, was designed to provide Filipino migrant workers with a space to rest and refresh before their flights. It features free Wi-Fi, charging docks, food, beverages, and upcoming enhancements like rest beds and massage chairs.
