UBE Express, a prominent transport company, has announced a generous 50% discount for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) traveling to or from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). This initiative aims to express gratitude to OFWs for their invaluable contributions to the Philippine economy through their remittances.
Garrie David, president of UBE Express, highlighted the significance of OFWs and stated, “This is our way of thanking OFWs who continue to help the Philippine economy with their remittances back to their families.” The discount is applicable to registered OFWs with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), requiring presentation of identification to avail of the promotion.
David also emphasized the broader objectives of the initiative, stating, “Another thing we are trying to work out is how do we promote solutions to decongest sa airport also. Send off at saka welcome, doon na tayo akapan, doon na tayo kakain sa mall.”
In light of transport issues and scams at NAIA, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III acknowledged the persistent problem of transport scams and endorsed buses as a viable alternative. Guadiz remarked, “Colorum, or vehicles without a franchise, ply the airport. Yan po nangongontrata at yan ho ang aming binabantayan ngayon” (They haggle for fares, we try to monitor them).
OWWA administrator Arnell Ignacio echoed concerns regarding taxi scams targeting OFWs and issued a stern warning, stating, “Yung mga nagbibigay ng sakit ng ulo at sama ng loob sa ating mga OFWs, sinasabi ko sa inyo, ipagpatuloy niyo yan, kayo ang bibigyan namin ng sakit ng ulo at sama ng loob sa kakasingil niyo ng mahal sa mga OFWs” (Those who victimize our OFWs, if you continue that, we will make sure you get your due).
UBE Express offers various routes from NAIA to/from PITX, Sta. Rosa, Araneta City Cubao, Ayala Malls South Park, Robinsons Place Manila, Robinsons Galleria, Victory Liner Pasay, with fares ranging from P50 to 300, and OFWs eligible for a 50% discount. OFWs can register online on the UBE Express website or avail of the discount as walk-in passengers.