LAPU-LAPU CITY – The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AICAC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on June 26 to officially launch and open the new Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Lounge and Facilitation Center at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) Terminal 2, in a major push to elevate the welfare of the country's "modern-day heroes” --the OFWs.
"This is not just a waiting area with chairs, it is a space of care, a space of comfort, tangible proof of love. If OFWs go out to serve the world, their government must serve them first." said Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Atty. Hans Leo Cacdac.
These facilities are core components of MCIA’s CEB Balik program, a strategic initiative designed to establish a comprehensive support system for OFWs right at the airport.
This facility establishes MCIA as the premier OFW gateway for the Visayas and Mindanao regions, delivering on a public-private partnership aimed at bringing premium comfort and simplified, one-stop government services directly to migrant workers.
Designed with the comfort and needs of OFWs in mind, the new facilities are strategically located to assist OFWs at both ends of their journey:
The OFW Lounge (Terminal 2 Departures Level near Gate 16): A dedicated space for departing OFWs waiting for their flights. It features comfortable seating, charging stations, and refreshments to ensure a relaxing environment before departure. OFWs can also access OWWA programs and services on-site, including OFW e-Card printing.
The OFW Facilitation Center (Terminal 2 Arrivals Level near pick-up area): Established in partnership with Cebu Pacific, this center operates as a one-stop-shop for returning and transiting OFWs. It allows OFWs to handle essential government transactions, such as the processing of Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs), right at the airport.
MCIAA General Manager and CEO Julius Neri, Jr. noted that this project is a testament that when the government and the private sector work hand-in-hand, so much can be achieved. By centralizing these critical services needed by OFWs and providing a dedicated space for them, the burdens of their travel are significantly eased.
Cebu Provincial Administrator Atty. Joseph Durano, speaking on behalf of governor Pamela Baricuatro, emphasized that the new facility is more than just a waiting area—it is a tangible recognition of the immense sacrifices and economic contributions of the country’s "modern-day heroes."
"Today, we are not simply opening a lounge; we are opening a space that recognizes the dignity, value, and contributions of the men and women who leave home in pursuit of a better future for their loved ones," Durano said during the opening ceremony.
A Sanctuary of Comfort and Dignity
The newly opened facility is the third international OFW lounge in the country, building on the success of existing hubs in Manila that have already served over two million workers. Designed to mimic premium business-class lounges, the space offers departing and arriving OFWs comfortable seating, refreshments, charging stations, and a welcoming environment.
Additionally, a new partnership with SSP Mactan Cebu will grant the country's 2.7 million active OWWA e-card holders exclusive dining and retail discounts throughout the airport.
Beyond being a rest area, the facility doubles as an OFW Facilitation Center to eliminate the need for workers to travel to regional line agencies before their flights. Staffed by the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the center provides:
Document Processing: Verification of Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs), exit clearances, and e-card printing. On-Site Support: Pre-departure briefings, contract verification, and immediate arrival assistance.
DMW Secretary Cacdac emphasized that the government's mandate now strictly shields the worker "before departure, while overseas, and until return."
A Model of Public-Private Partnership
The center was realized through a seamless joint initiative among the DMW, OWWA, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AICAC), and Cebu Pacific Air. Under the agreement, AICAC provided the prime space in Terminal 2 completely free of charge for five years, while Cebu Pacific partially financed the construction.
"We witness around 60,000 OFWs walk through our airport every year. We understand that our kababayans leave pieces of their hearts to build a better future. By bringing these essential services directly to Cebu, we are giving back what truly matters most—their precious time with their families and less lost time in transit,” said Ricia Vinelli Montejo, General Manager of Aboitiz InfraCapital.
Atty. Maria Cecilia Natividad, Vice President for Corporate Affairs at Cebu Pacific Air, reiterated the airline's commitment to making travel stress-free. By bringing these services closer to where OFWs travel, the centers make the processes simpler and faster. It is a reflection of what can be achieved when government and the private sector work with a common purpose, Natividad stated.
Extending 'Cebuano Charm'
Provincial Administrator Atty. Joseph Durano connected the launch to Cebu’s status as a regional icon of hospitality.
"Through this OFW lounge, we are extending
our distinct Cebuano charm to our modern heroes. Know that Cebu stands with
you," Durano said, adding that the MCIA Board remains heavily committed to
maintaining the hub's standing as a best-in-class airport in the region.
The Cebu launch is part of a broader directive
by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to expand premium OFW dedicated spaces
outside of Luzon, with Davao already operational and developments in Clark
underway. (Photos: MBCNewman)
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