The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has unveiled major upgrades at the OFW Lounge in NAIA Terminal 1, highlighted by the addition of 26 double-deck beds for overseas Filipino workers in transit.
DMW Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan said the agency carefully reviewed operating costs to make sure the facility remains sustainable without burdening the budget. “We did review all the costing, kung paano natin gagawing sustainable,” she explained in an ABS-CBN News report, stressing that the upgrades were made cost-effective through partnerships and resource management.
The new sleeping quarters are divided into 12 beds for female OFWs and 14 for males, complete with sheets, pillowcases, and shower essentials provided by DMW staff. Aside from the beds, the lounge now features massage chairs courtesy of New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC), along with a multi-faith prayer room for travelers.
Caunan emphasized that these improvements are part of the government’s broader plan to institutionalize OFW lounges not only at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 but also in key airports across Cebu, Clark, Davao, and beyond. “Dapat po, hindi lang sa Terminal 1 at 3 ang merong lounge kundi sa Cebu International, Clark International, Davao International, at iba pang airports,” she said.
The upgraded sleeping quarters are set to open on or before October 1, with posted guidelines to manage capacity and prioritize users. Caunan added that this initiative is now backed by a dedicated budget line under the “Alagang OWWA” program, ensuring continuity of services.
