The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has partnered with UBE Express (bus transfer service) to provide a 50% fare discount for OFWs traveling from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to key locations throughout Metro Manila and beyond. This partnership aims to lighten the financial load on our kababayans and shield them from high transportation costs and common taxi scams at the airport.
Whether you’re returning from a contract abroad or coming home for a well-deserved vacation, this partnership ensures a more affordable and secure journey from NAIA to your destination. Expect comprehensive route coverage and significant savings as this collaboration seeks to enhance the welfare of OFWs, acknowledging their significant contributions to the country’s economy and society.
Introduction to the Partnership
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has teamed up with UBE Express to offer a substantial 50% fare discount to overseas Filipino workers traveling from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to various strategic locations in Metro Manila and beyond. This aims to ease the financial burden on our kababayans and safeguard them against high transportation costs and potential taxi scams prevalent at the airport.
Significance of this Partnership
The OWWA x UBE Express Partnership holds substantial significance for overseas Filipino workers, particularly those traveling to and from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). This collaborative effort between the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and UBE Express Inc. aims to provide a 50% fare discount on UBE Express Bus rides for OFWs.
By leveraging this partnership, our kababayans can significantly reduce their transportation costs, fostering financial relief and easing the burden of travel expenses. The partnership aligns with the Philippine government’s commitment to support and protect its migrant workforce. Legislation such as the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995 underscores the importance of safeguarding the welfare and rights of OFWs. Through this strategic collaboration, the OWWA and UBE Express contribute to enhancing the overall well-being of our kababayans, recognizing their important role in the country’s economy and society
Legal Basis and Background
This partnership is grounded in OWWA’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of Filipino overseas workers by making their transitions smoother and more affordable. OWWA has consistently initiated programs to assist our kababayans during their deployment and upon their return to the Philippines.
Benefits of the Partnership
- Significant Savings: OFWs enjoy a 50% reduction in fare, lowering the cost to only P75 from the usual P150 for routes covered by the UBE Express.
- Extensive Coverage: The service includes routes to key locations such as Robinsons Sta. Rosa, Araneta City Cubao, Robinsons Galleria, Ayala Malls South Park, and more.
- Protection Against Scams: Reduced dependency on taxis and private hires, which are often overpriced or unreliable.
UBE Express offers convenient bus services at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) with varying schedules depending on the destination.
- For OFWs traveling from NAIA to Cubao, buses run from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM, with an approximate journey time of 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- The Cubao to NAIA service starts at 6:00 AM until 9:00 PM, with hourly departures.
- For those heading to Manila, buses are available from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and from NAIA to Laguna, services run from 3:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Payment options include Beep Card and cash, depending on the route. Given the potential for traffic delays, it’s advisable for travelers to plan their trips considering peak times to ensure timely arrivals at their destinations.
Friendly Reminder: When using UBE Express for airport transportation, please note that pick-ups are only available at Terminal 3. So, if your flight arrives at Terminals 1, 2, or 4, kindly make your way to Terminal 3 first. The UBE Express Booth can be found at the Arrival Area, specifically at Bay 12.
Who Is Eligible?
All returning OFWs who can present valid proof of overseas employment are eligible to benefit from this discounted fare. This is designed to cover those who are either returning for a vacation or have completed their employment contracts abroad.
Requirements to Avail the Discount
- Valid OFW ID or equivalent proof of overseas employment
- Arrival at any NAIA terminal
Step-by-Step Guide to Benefit from UBE Express Bus
- Arrive at NAIA: Ensure your arrival is documented with an OFW status.
- Proceed to the UBE Express Booth: Located within the airport Terminal 3.
- Present Your OFW ID: Show your OFW identification or proof of status.
- Purchase Your Ticket: Buy a ticket at the discounted rate of P75.
- Board the UBE Express: Enjoy a comfortable ride to your destination.
Additional Information
This partnership also aligns with efforts to decongest NAIA by facilitating smoother, more organized transport arrangements for the thousands of OFWs who pass through the airport daily.
Future Plans
OWWA and UBE Express are exploring possibilities to expand the service to include more routes, potentially extending as far north as the Ilocos Region, to accommodate more OFWs traveling to different parts of Luzon.
Recent Updates
OWWA Celebrates 42nd Anniversary with Exciting Programs and Services
In celebration of its 42nd anniversary, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is proud to showcase its latest programs and services aimed at supporting overseas Filipino workers. Under the leadership of AdminArnell Ign, OWWA continues to provide invaluable assistance and care to our kababayans, ensuring their welfare and success. Join the celebration by sharing your favorite OWWA program or service that has made a positive impact in the lives of our modern-day heroes.
OWWA and UBE Express are extending a generous 50% discount to our fellow Filipinos traveling to or from NAIA Terminals. With this special offer, OFWs can now enjoy more convenient and affordable journeys aboard the new BFF of our kababayans. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for a hassle-free travel experience!
Kabayang Diana expresses her gratitude for the #OWWAclientApproved feedback and advises aspiring scholarship applicants to ensure they have complete requirements and seek guidance from OWWA’s regional welfare offices. Additionally, Kabayang Diana mentions the exclusive 50% off on P2P bus fares offered by the partnership between UBE Express and OWWA for the convenience of OFWs traveling to and from NAIA Terminals. Take advantage of these opportunities to support our kababayans and make their journeys more affordable.
As you return home, OWWA and UBE Express hope that this partnership will serve as a guide and support in reuniting you with your loved ones. Take care always and have a safe journey back home!
Video: OWWA, UBE Express inilunsad 50% discount fare sa mga OFW
In a bid to address the reported instances of overcharging faced by returning overseas Filipino workers in public transportation, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) led by Administrator Arnel Ignacio, in partnership with UBE Express Inc. headed by Alberto Lina and President Gary David, has launched a 50% discount program for our kababayans arriving from abroad. The UBE Express buses, conveniently located in front of the departure area of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), aim to provide a more affordable and reliable transportation option for returning OFWs.
Conclusion
The OWWA x UBE Express partnership is a testament to the ongoing efforts to support our modern-day heroes, the OFWs, by making their homecoming less burdensome. This not only helps them save money but also ensures a safer, more reliable travel experience from NAIA to their homes or next destinations.
This partnership stands as a significant step toward acknowledging and addressing the challenges faced by our kababayans, ensuring that their sacrifice and hard work are recognized with tangible support when they return to the Philippine shores.