Iloilo: The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in Western Visayas (OWWA-6) has teamed up with Philippine Airlines (PAL) to provide domestic travel discounts for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) departing from Iloilo. This initiative is set to run until July 31, targeting one of the regions with a significant OFW population.
According to Philippines News Agency, PAL's regional head for sales-Philippines, Leonard Bryan Sansolis, announced the program during a press conference, emphasizing its recognition of OFWs' hard work and sacrifices. Sansolis expressed that the initiative is 'a labor of passion,' with potential for expansion depending on the pilot's success.
The program offers OFWs discounts of up to 10 percent on unlimited domestic flights from Iloilo, contingent on presenting valid documentation. Specifically, Economy Saver tickets come with a 5-percent discount and a 10kg baggage allowance, while Economy Value and Economy Flex tickets offer a 10-percent discount with a 20kg baggage allowance. Comfort Class and Business Class passengers receive 25kg and 35kg baggage allowances, respectively.
The pilot program is scheduled to conclude on July 31, allowing PAL to assess its feasibility for possible expansion. Region 6, which includes Iloilo, is home to approximately 400,000 OFWs, with 30,019 departures and 26,018 arrivals recorded in 2024 alone.
James Mendiola, OWWA-6 officer-in-charge, highlighted the region's prominence in OFW deployment and its historical significance as a hub for sea-based education. To benefit from the discounts, OFWs must present documentation such as an Overseas Employment Certificate, certificate of employment, or seaman's book.
PAL has clarified that these discounts cannot be combined with other discount programs available to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, students, military personnel, and national athletes/coaches. Tickets can be purchased at the PAL office in Iloilo or through authorized agents within the city and province.
