Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have welcomed their government’s decision to exempt them from paying the airport terminal fee when it comes into effect on Feb. 1.

Muslim pilgrims and Filipino athletes are also exempted from paying the 550 peso airport terminal fee.

The implementation of the memorandum seeking the integration of the terminal fees with the cost of plane tickets was delayed in September last year due to opposition from OFWs and a Philippine court had also declared the fee illegal.

In order to be exempted, OFWs have to show their exemption certificate while pilgrims and athletes must present to the airport authorities proof of the endorsement of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and the Philippine Sports Commission respectively.

Those who purchase their tickets online or overseas may get a refund at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport afterward.

Eric P. Asi, a senior engineer from Riyadh, said: “We are happy about OFWs’ exemption from the airport fee. We are also saved from lining up at the airport for a refund which is time consuming.”

In Alkhobar, Eduardo R. Rodriguez, said the move adds credence to the government’s claim that “OFWs are the country’s new heroes.”

Cora A. Flores, a nurse in Buraidah, said: “This is good news. I hope the government keeps showing its support to OFWs.”