Department of Migrant Workers to Expand OFW Lounges at Key Philippine Airports

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has announced its intention to open additional Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Lounges, specifically targeting Clark International Airport and Mactan–Cebu International Airport. This announcement came amidst circulating reports suggesting the possible shutdown of existing lounges at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3.

In a statement released on September 20, 2025, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed that the department is finalizing plans to establish new OFW Lounges at the two airports. "We already have plans to open new OFW Lounges in Cebu and Clark," Cacdac stated, emphasizing that expansion efforts are underway.

He further elaborated that the search for other suitable airport locations where enhanced facilities could be introduced remains ongoing. "The search continues for other airports, where similar and even better facilities can be built," he said.

These announcements come after concerns arose that the OFW Lounges at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 might cease operations by 2026 due to potential budget reductions affecting the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (Owwa). Last week, Owwa officially denied these claims, affirming that funding issues would not affect their services.

The DMW has echoed Owwa's position, clarifying that not only will existing lounges continue to operate, but plans for additional lounges are actively progressing. The expansion aims to enhance the support system and comfort for overseas Filipino workers as they travel through major airports across the country.