OWWA clarifies departure lounge rules following NAIA 3 incident

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) clarified Sunday that the dedicated OFW Lounge at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 is designated primarily for departing or connecting passengers, following a viral incident involving an arriving worker.

The welfare agency issued the statement to address public concerns after an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) returning from Dubai was involved in a recorded disagreement with lounge staff regarding access to the facility.

"Based on the CCTV footage, incident reports, and statements from the personnel present, the concerned OFW successfully entered the OFW Lounge and was assisted by our staff with registration and luggage," OWWA said in an official statement.

OWWA explained that although the worker did not hold a connecting flight — intending instead to travel to Romblon province via land and sea transport — duty staff granted her entry as a courtesy.

"She did not have a connecting domestic flight as she was proceeding to Romblon via land and sea travel," the agency said. "However, as a courtesy, she was permitted to enter the lounge and informed that she was welcome to enjoy the food and beverages."