Manila: Cebu Pacific (CEB), in collaboration with Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), is set to establish an overseas Filipino workers (OFW) processing center at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) Terminal 2. The construction of the center is slated to begin this month, with operations expected to commence by June.

According to Philippines News Agency, the new facility aims to simplify the processing of essential travel documents such as overseas employment certificates (OECs) and exit clearances for OFWs. Additionally, it will serve as a support hub for their departure and return-related concerns. Candice Iyog, Cebu Pacific's chief marketing and customer experience officer, stated that the partnership underscores CEB's commitment to enhancing air travel convenience and responsiveness to the needs of OFWs.

The Gokongwei-led airline plans to maintain close collaboration with government agencies and private entities to improve services for OFWs. As per the agreement signed at the DMW's office in Mandaluyong City, CEB will provide partial financing for the project, while ACAC will offer a six-square-meter space in Terminal 2 free of charge for five years.

DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac emphasized that the construction of the OFW Center at Cebu Airport is a gesture of appreciation for the contributions made by OFWs. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) operates one of the busiest airports in the country, serving as the main gateway for Central Visayas with 21 airlines flying to 14 international destinations.

The DMW reported processing 90,562 land-based OFWs from Central Visayas in 2024.