We call them our modern-day heroes, our kababayans who venture out of the country to work not just for their families but also to help uplift the nation’s economy. Airports are an important part of their journey because it’s here where they wait in anticipation to begin a new life path, or to meet loved ones that they haven’t seen in a long time.
As a gesture of appreciation for our overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the newly completed Clark International Airport terminal building has dedicated a transit lounge exclusively for their use. It’s a place where they can stay to rest and relax—free of charge.
During the inspection of the new terminal on July 17, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Vince Dizon said, “Clark’s new terminal is envisioned to be an international gateway that all Filipinos can be proud of, not just because of its state-of-the-art facilities, but because it reflects Filipino values. Kasama na po rito ang pagtanaw ng utang na loob. OFWs make a huge sacrifice for our country. The OFW Lounge is our small way of saying thanks, and reassuring our kababayans that we value them, wherever they are in the world and especially here at home.”
Aside from the lounge, OFWs will also get to experience 24/7 self-service check-in and bag drop facilities to provide more flexibility in planning their departure as they are not restricted by counter opening hours, and integrated security screening for a stress-free journey, and contactless ordering system for restaurants, among others.
The new CRK passenger terminal is a four-story building, with domestic and international remote gates, baggage reclaim halls, VIP and ‘meeters and greeters’ spaces, arrival corridors, transfers, immigrations, and fixed link bridges, well-wishers area, forecourt, check-in, security checks, retail space and gate lounges, a food and beverage area, and commercially important (CIP) lounges.
President Duterte led the inspection of the structure and facilities last July 17, so now everyone is just waiting for the green light to be given by aviation regulators before finally opening the new airport terminal to passengers.
