As a gesture of appreciation to the country’s modern day heroes, the newly completed Clark International Airport terminal building has dedicated a transit lounge exclusively for the use of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
While waiting for their departing flights or sundo for long-awaited homecomings, OFWs can stay, rest and relax at the lounge – 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 and Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD) Chief Executive Officer Bi Yong Chungunco gave prominent government officials and dignitaries a first look at OFW lounge, one of the unique features of the transport facility.
Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III; former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, currently Presidential Adviser on Clark Programs and Projects; and French Ambassador to the Philippines Michèle Boccoz were among the personalities who were greeted by Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and several Metro Manila mayors at the lounge.
“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 and 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,” Dizon said.
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, integrated security screening for a stress-free journey, and contactless ordering system for restaurants, among others.
The terminal offers views of the Sacobia mountain ranges towards its west, and Mt. Arayat towards its east. The design of the terminal’s facade reflects the wavy silhouette of Mt. Arayat, Mt. Pinatubo, and Sierra Madre mountain range.
The new CRK passenger terminal is a four-storey building, with domestic and international remote gates, baggage reclaim halls, VIP as well as 'meeters and greeters' space, 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.