Dedicated OFW Wing Opens at NAIA Terminal 3
It helps speed up everyone else's time at the immigration counter, too.
(SPOT.ph) Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) flying out of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 can now expect faster processing at immigration, thanks to a newly opened wing dedicated just for them.
According to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the expansion includes six new counters manned by 12 immigration officers to accommodate the 3,400 OFWs who depart from NAIA every day. OFWs can bypass the usual long lines at regular immigration counters now that the dedicated wing is operational.
BI Commissioner Joel Viado said that the move not only improves the travel experience for OFWs but also helps shorten queues for other passengers—including tourists and returning residents—using the main immigration area. The launch also came just in time for the upcoming Holy Week rush, which is expected to cause a spike in outbound travel.
“This is just one of the many steps we are taking to modernize immigration services,” Viado said in a statement. “We will continue working with our partners to enhance facilities and ensure that our kababayans receive the best possible service when they travel.”
OFWs get the special treatment at NAIA
Adjacent to the immigration counters is the OFW Lounge, which was launched in 2024 as part of the government’s broader effort to improve services for Filipino migrant workers. Located near Gate 7 at Terminal 3, the lounge is open 24/7 to all OFWs at no cost, regardless of airline or ticket class.
Inside, travelers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and help desk services, along with complimentary food and drinks like coffee, juice, lugaw, and pastries. Similar spaces are planned across key airports nationwide, including in Cebu, Davao, and Clark.
Also read: OFWs Now Have Their Own Lounge at NAIA