CLARK FREEPORT ZONE (PIA) — The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD Corp.) for the establishment of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Lounge at Clark International Airport.
This initiative aims to provide OFWs with a dedicated space where they can rest comfortably while waiting for their flights and conveniently access OWWA services, including E-card issuance and membership processing.
OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan emphasized that the lounge is a meaningful way of recognizing the sacrifices and invaluable contributions of OFWs to the country and their families.
“This small gesture, free meals, free coffee, free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and someone they can talk to before they leave is only a small way of giving back for the sacrifices they make and the contributions they continue to give to our country and to their families,” she said.
Caunan stressed that beyond providing comfort and convenience, the OFW Lounge reflects the government’s commitment to treating overseas Filipino workers with dignity and respect.
“So truly, our OFW Lounges and our Global Centers abroad are different facilities of the Department of Migrant Workers and OWWA. They are welfare-oriented facilities because our goal is, as much as possible, to provide dignity and respect to our OFWs,” she said.
The establishment of the lounge marks another milestone in OWWA’s efforts to strengthen its support services for OFWs by creating a dedicated facility where they can rest and conveniently access essential government services before their departure.
This initiative is aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to safeguard the welfare and well-being of overseas Filipino workers, recognizing them as modern-day heroes for their significant contributions to the nation.
Through its partnership with LIPAD Corp., OWWA reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the welfare of OFWs and their families by ensuring they receive accessible services, care, and support. (Mark Anthony G. Pangan)
