Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has opened a dedicated Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Lounge and Facilitation Center to provide government services and improve the travel experience of Filipinos working abroad.

The facilities, launched through a partnership among the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) and Cebu Pacific, are part of MCIA's CEB Balik program.

Located at Terminal 2, the OFW Lounge offers departing workers a waiting area with seating, charging stations and refreshments. It also provides access to OWWA services, including OFW e-Card printing.

Meanwhile, the OFW Facilitation Center at the arrivals level serves as a one-stop shop where returning and transiting OFWs can process government transactions, including Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs).

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan, MCIAA General Manager Julius Neri Jr., ACAC General Manager Ricia Vinelli Montejo and Cebu Pacific officials led the inauguration.

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"We witness the profound dedication and invaluable contributions of our OFWs to their families and our country. Through our CEB Balik program, the opening of these facilities demonstrates our commitment to providing compassionate service and a comfortable experience here at Mactan-Cebu International Airport," Montejo said.

Neri said the project demonstrates how government agencies and the private sector can work together to make airport services more accessible.

Cacdac said the initiative supports the government's goal of ensuring that every OFW experiences a dignified departure and arrival.

"Our OFWs should never feel like second-class citizens in their own land," he said.

Caunan said the new facilities will allow OFWs to spend less time processing documents and more time with their families.

MCIA said the initiative is part of its continuing efforts to provide more efficient, convenient and responsive services for overseas Filipino workers.