In a major step toward enhancing the travel experience of the country’s modern-day heroes, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac met with Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Lt. Gen. Raul L. Del Rosario, AFP (Ret) on January 5, 2026, to finalize the rollout of dedicated OFW Lounges across the archipelago.
The high-level meeting, held at the DMW Central Office, focused on the construction timelines and operational integration of specialized lounges at Davao International Airport, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and Clark International Airport.
The initiative follows the successful launch of the first OFW Lounge at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), fulfilling a direct mandate from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to provide overseas Filipinos with a sense of “home away from home” while in transit. “Our OFWs deserve more than just a waiting area; they deserve a space that reflects the nation’s gratitude for their sacrifices,” Secretary Cacdac stated. “By bringing these lounges to Davao, Cebu, and Clark, we are ensuring that the same level of comfort and dignity is available to our workers, regardless of which regional hub they depart from.”
During the session, Secretary Cacdac and DG Del Rosario reviewed progress updates alongside key officials, including:
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Lt. Col. Valentino A. Dionela, PAF (Ret)
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Engineer Rex Obcena
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DMW Undersecretaries Dominique Rubia-Tutay and Bernard P. Olalia
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DMW Assistant Secretaries Jerome Alcantara and Maria Regina Angela Galias
The discussions centered on ensuring these facilities are not only comfortable but also functional—serving as hubs for assistance, information, and rest.
The planned regional lounges will be modeled after international hospitality standards, featuring:
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Comfortable Seating and Rest Areas: Designed for long layovers and pre-boarding relaxation.
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Complimentary Amenities: Access to Wi-Fi, charging stations, and refreshments.
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DMW Help Desks: On-site assistance for documentation queries or emergency support.
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Cultural Touchpoints: Interiors that showcase Filipino hospitality and aesthetics.
The CAAP leadership reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the technical requirements and spatial allocations needed to meet the 2026 completion targets. As the DMW and CAAP move forward, the expansion marks a significant milestone in the government’s “whole-of-nation” approach to migrant welfare.
