One of the best ways to make a long wait at NAIA more comfortable is to use an airport lounge.

Instead of sitting for hours beside a crowded boarding gate, you may be able to get a proper meal, charge your devices, connect to Wi-Fi, work somewhere quieter or simply relax before your flight. Some NAIA lounges even have showers, sleeping areas and dedicated spaces for families.

The tricky part is figuring out which lounge you can actually use.

NAIA currently has a mix of airline lounges, independent lounges, Priority Pass lounges, OFW lounges and a transit hotel. There have also been several major changes in 2026, particularly at Terminal 3, where the new First Meridian Lounge opened and older airline lounges such as Cathay Pacific’s lounge and Singapore Airlines’ SilverKris Lounge closed.

So if you’re looking at an old airport lounge guide, there’s a good chance some of the information is already outdated.

Here’s an updated guide to the lounges at NAIA Terminals 1, 2 and 3, including their locations, operating hours and the different ways you may be able to get inside.

NAIA Lounges at a Glance

According to NAIA’s official wellness directory, updated August 25, 2026, the airport currently lists lounges across all three main terminals. Priority Pass and airline directories also continue to list additional independent lounges at Terminal 3.

Terminal	Lounge	Location	General operating hours
Terminal 1	PAL Mabuhay Lounge	Level 4, Pre-Departure	24 hours
Terminal 1	PAGSS Premium Lounge	East Concourse	24 hours
Terminal 1	A Lounge	East Concourse	Airport lists 24 hours
Terminal 1	Marhaba Lounge	West Concourse	Airport lists 24 hours
Terminal 1	OFW Lounge	Level 3, Departure Area	24 hours
Terminal 2	PAL Lounge	Southwest Wing	24 hours
Terminal 2	PAL Lounge	Northwest Wing	24 hours
Terminal 3	First Meridian Lounge	Level 4, International Pre-Departure	24 hours
Terminal 3	A Lounge	Level 4, International Departures	24 hours
Terminal 3	PAGSS Lounge	Level 4, International Departures	Priority Pass access currently 12 AM–3 PM
Terminal 3	OFW Lounge	Level 3, Departure Area	24 hours
Terminal 3	The Wings Transit Hotel & Spa	Level 4, Concession Area	24 hours

One thing to understand about lounge hours: the lounge itself may technically be open 24 hours while your particular access program has shorter hours.

For example, NAIA lists Marhaba and A Lounge at Terminal 1 as 24-hour facilities, while Priority Pass currently allows access to A Lounge from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM and Marhaba from 7:00 AM to midnight.

So always check the app or program you’re actually using.

How Can You Get Into an NAIA Lounge?

You don’t necessarily need to be flying First Class or Business Class anymore.

There are several possible ways to access an airport lounge at NAIA.

The most common are flying in an eligible premium cabin, holding qualifying airline elite status, using Priority Pass or another lounge membership, receiving complimentary lounge access through an eligible credit card, paying for access when the lounge offers walk-in admission, or qualifying for the dedicated OFW lounges.

But every lounge has different rules.

Having Priority Pass, for example, doesn’t automatically give you access to every lounge at NAIA.

And having a premium credit card doesn’t necessarily mean unlimited lounge visits. Your bank may impose annual limits, guest charges or enrollment requirements.

My advice is simple: check your actual card or lounge membership app before going to the airport.

Now let’s go terminal by terminal.

NAIA Terminal 1 Lounges

Terminal 1 currently has the largest variety of lounges at NAIA.

This makes sense because Terminal 1 handles Philippine Airlines international flights along with international services from several other carriers.

You currently have five main choices: PAL Mabuhay Lounge, PAGSS Premium Lounge, A Lounge, Marhaba Lounge and the OFW Lounge.

PAL Mabuhay Lounge – Terminal 1

The Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge is located on Level 4 in the international pre-departure area.

This is PAL’s main international lounge at NAIA.

The airport currently lists it as operating 24 hours a day.

Access is primarily for eligible Philippine Airlines passengers.

PAL’s current lounge rules specify that Business Class passengers traveling on PAL international flights can access the lounge on the day of departure. Qualifying Mabuhay Miles Elite, Premier Elite and Million Miler members are also eligible under the airline’s rules.

The lounge is what you’d expect from a full-service airline lounge: comfortable seating, dining, work areas, refreshments and a quieter environment than the boarding gates.

One of the things I like about airline lounges like this is that you don’t have to think much about eligibility. If your ticket or Mabuhay Miles status includes lounge access, it should be reflected in your booking or confirmed during check-in.

Still, it’s worth asking the PAL counter if you’re unsure.

PAGSS Premium Lounge – Terminal 1

PAGSS is probably one of the best-known independent lounges at NAIA.

You’ll find the Terminal 1 PAGSS Premium Lounge airside in the East Concourse, beside Gate 2.

It operates 24 hours and is currently part of the Priority Pass network.

For Priority Pass users, the current conditions include a maximum stay of three hours. Priority Pass also says cardholders can bring up to two guests, although charges may apply depending on the membership or credit card providing the Priority Pass benefit.

Children under eight are currently admitted free under Priority Pass rules.

PAGSS generally offers the things most travelers want from an airport lounge: food, drinks, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi and somewhere to charge your phone or laptop.

If your credit card comes with Priority Pass, this is definitely one lounge worth checking in your app before heading to Terminal 1.

A Lounge – Terminal 1

A Lounge is also located in the East Concourse, close to Gate 2.

NAIA’s airport directory lists A Lounge as operating 24 hours, while Priority Pass currently provides member access between 5:00 AM and 11:00 PM.

That’s an important distinction.

If you’re flying at 2:00 AM and you see an older guide saying the lounge operates 24 hours, don’t automatically assume your Priority Pass membership will get you inside at that time.

Priority Pass currently allows a maximum four-hour stay, with children under three admitted free under its program rules.

The lounge includes food and beverages, flight information, Wi-Fi and air-conditioned seating.

Having both A Lounge and PAGSS within the same general East Concourse area gives eligible passengers some flexibility if one lounge becomes crowded.

Marhaba Lounge – Terminal 1

If your boarding gate is on the West Concourse side, Marhaba Lounge may be much more convenient.

It is located airside near Gate 9.

NAIA lists the lounge as operating 24 hours, although Priority Pass currently provides access from 7:00 AM until midnight.

Priority Pass currently allows a maximum three-hour stay, and children under two are admitted free.

One useful difference is that Marhaba also lists a quiet area and prayer room among its facilities.

So before automatically choosing a lounge, look at your departure gate.

Terminal 1 isn’t as huge as Terminal 3, but there’s still no point relaxing in a lounge on the opposite side of the terminal if boarding is about to begin.

OFW Lounge – Terminal 1

The Terminal 1 OFW Lounge is one of the best airport improvements for Overseas Filipino Workers.

It’s located on Level 3 in the departure area and operates 24 hours.

The upgraded Terminal 1 lounge opened in December 2025 and offers complimentary food and drinks, rest areas, charging stations and secure baggage storage. Eligible OFWs can use the facility free of charge regardless of the type of airline ticket they’re holding.

That last part is important.

You don’t need a Business Class ticket.

You don’t need Priority Pass.

And you don’t need a premium credit card.

If you’re an eligible OFW traveling through Terminal 1, check the lounge before paying for commercial lounge access.

NAIA Terminal 2 Lounges

Terminal 2 is much simpler.

The official NAIA directory currently lists only Philippine Airlines lounges here: one in the Southwest Wing and another in the Northwest Wing.

Both are listed as operating 24 hours.

Terminal 2 is currently used for domestic flights, including Philippine Airlines domestic services.

PAL Mabuhay Lounges – Terminal 2

The two PAL lounges serve passengers traveling through the different wings of Terminal 2.

The Northwest Wing handles many PAL domestic services, while the Southwest side serves certain routes depending on PAL’s terminal arrangement.

Philippine Airlines’ current lounge rules specifically include eligible Comfort Class passengers traveling on PAL domestic flights, as well as qualifying Mabuhay Miles Elite, Premier Elite and Million Miler members.

If you’re flying PAL and qualify, the check-in agent should be able to tell you which lounge is most convenient for your departure gate.

The lounges generally provide comfortable seating, refreshments, food, Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Is There a Priority Pass Lounge at Terminal 2?

As of September 2026, Priority Pass’s current NAIA directory does not list a Terminal 2 lounge.

Its Manila airport listings are currently concentrated in Terminals 1 and 3.

That means passengers shouldn’t assume that having Priority Pass gives them a lounge option at Terminal 2.

This is probably one of the biggest differences between Terminal 2 and the other NAIA terminals.

If you’re flying domestically from Terminal 2 and don’t qualify for the PAL lounge, your options are mainly the regular departure-area seating, cafés and restaurants.

NAIA Terminal 3 Lounges

Terminal 3 is where things have changed the most.

For years, travelers knew Terminal 3 for lounges such as PAGSS, A Lounge, Cathay Pacific Lounge and Singapore Airlines’ SilverKris Lounge.

In 2026, the lounge setup was reorganized significantly following the opening of First Meridian Lounge.

Today, Terminal 3 has several different lounge and rest options depending on whether you’re an international passenger, an OFW or simply looking for somewhere to sleep during a long wait.

First Meridian Lounge

The biggest change at NAIA in 2026 is First Meridian Lounge.

It is located on Level 4 in Terminal 3’s international pre-departure area and operates 24 hours.

At approximately 2,600 square meters, it is a large shared premium lounge rather than a lounge dedicated to one airline.

When NNIC announced expanded use of the facility in June 2026, participating airlines included Thai Airways, Emirates, Japan Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Cathay Pacific, KLM and Qatar Airways.

Singapore Airlines subsequently moved eligible Manila passengers to First Meridian beginning June 15, 2026, following the closure of its Terminal 3 SilverKris Lounge.

Japan Airlines also officially identifies First Meridian as its Manila lounge for eligible customers.

Cathay Pacific lists amenities including food and drinks, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, printing facilities and showers.

This makes First Meridian a significant upgrade from the smaller airline lounges Terminal 3 used to have.

Who Can Use First Meridian Lounge?

This is where you need to be careful.

First Meridian isn’t simply a general-purpose lounge where everyone with a lounge card automatically gets in.

Access depends primarily on participating airlines and your eligibility through cabin class or airline status.

For example, an eligible Japan Airlines passenger may qualify through First Class, Business Class, certain Premium Economy tickets or qualifying JAL frequent-flyer status. Different airlines have their own eligibility rules.

Priority Pass’s current Manila directory does not list First Meridian among its participating NAIA lounges.

So don’t assume that a Priority Pass card alone provides entry.

A Lounge – Terminal 3

A Lounge remains another useful option at Terminal 3.

Priority Pass currently lists the Terminal 3 A Lounge as operating 24 hours.

It is located airside on Level 4 in the international departure area. After immigration and security, passengers can take the lift toward Level 4.

Priority Pass currently allows a maximum four-hour stay, with children under three admitted free.

This is particularly useful for passengers whose airline doesn’t provide First Meridian access but who receive Priority Pass through a credit card or separate membership.

PAGSS Lounge – Terminal 3

PAGSS is also still operating in Terminal 3 according to the current Priority Pass directory and Japan Airlines’ Terminal 3 airport information.

It is located on Level 4 near Gate 114 after immigration and security.

But there is a major change worth knowing.

Priority Pass currently lists access hours only from midnight until 3:00 PM daily. No Priority Pass entry is available outside that window under the current listing.

There’s also currently a three-hour maximum stay.

So if you have an evening international flight, don’t plan your entire pre-flight routine around PAGSS without checking first.

A Lounge may be the more practical Priority Pass option during hours when PAGSS isn’t available.

OFW Lounge – Terminal 3

Terminal 3 also has an OFW Lounge on Level 3 in the departure area.

It operates 24 hours.

This was the first major NAIA OFW Lounge under the airport’s newer program and has served hundreds of thousands of overseas workers since opening.

Like the Terminal 1 facility, it gives OFWs somewhere more comfortable to wait without having to buy lounge access.

If you’re flying overseas for work, this should be one of the first places you check.

The Wings Transit Hotel & Spa

The Wings is a little different from the other lounges in this guide.

It’s located on Level 4 in Terminal 3’s concession area and operates 24 hours. NAIA categorizes it as a “Transit Hotel and Lounge.”

This is more useful if your priority is sleeping rather than simply eating or sitting somewhere comfortable.

It has historically offered sleeping pods, private spaces, showers and other facilities designed for travelers with longer waits.

If you have an overnight layover, an extremely early departure or several hours before you’re allowed to check in, this type of facility can make more sense than paying for a traditional airport lounge.

Check the current rates and availability directly before relying on it, particularly during peak travel periods.

What Happened to the Cathay Pacific Lounge?

This is worth mentioning because you’ll still find plenty of old NAIA guides recommending it.

Cathay Pacific permanently closed its dedicated Manila lounge on May 31, 2026.

Eligible Cathay Pacific passengers are now directed to First Meridian Lounge on Level 4 of Terminal 3.

So if you arrive at Terminal 3 looking for the old Cathay Lounge, you’re following outdated information.

What Happened to the Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge?

The same applies to Singapore Airlines.

The Manila SilverKris Lounge stopped operating from June 15, 2026.

Eligible Singapore Airlines customers are now invited to use First Meridian Lounge.

These two closures are part of the larger shift toward a shared premium-lounge model at Terminal 3.

Instead of every airline operating a small individual lounge, First Meridian can serve passengers from several international airlines in a much larger space.

Which NAIA Lounges Accept Priority Pass?

As of September 2026, Priority Pass currently lists five lounge experiences at NAIA.

Terminal	Priority Pass Lounge	PP access hours
Terminal 1	PAGSS Premium Lounge	24 hours
Terminal 1	A Lounge	5:00 AM–11:00 PM
Terminal 1	Marhaba Lounge	7:00 AM–12:00 midnight
Terminal 3	A Lounge	24 hours
Terminal 3	PAGSS Lounge	12:00 AM–3:00 PM

There is currently no Terminal 2 lounge listed by Priority Pass, and First Meridian is also not listed in Priority Pass’s current NAIA directory.

Remember that Priority Pass conditions can change quickly.

If your Priority Pass membership comes from a credit card, your bank may also impose its own limits. Some cards provide unlimited visits, some provide only a few visits per year and others charge separately for guests.

Always open your Priority Pass app before going to the airport.

Can You Pay to Enter an NAIA Lounge?

Some lounges may allow paid or walk-in access, but availability, prices and capacity rules can change.

Airline lounges are generally more restrictive.

You shouldn’t expect to walk up to First Meridian or PAL Mabuhay Lounge, hand over cash and automatically be admitted. Access may depend on your airline, cabin, frequent-flyer status or an eligible paid lounge product offered by the airline.

Independent lounges such as PAGSS and A Lounge are generally more likely to support multiple access arrangements, including lounge memberships, airline contracts and eligible credit cards.

If you’re planning to pay rather than use a membership, contact the lounge or check its current admission options first.

Can Domestic Passengers Use Terminal 3 International Lounges?

Usually not.

This is another common source of confusion.

A Lounge and PAGSS at Terminal 3 are in the international airside area after passport control and security. First Meridian is also in the international pre-departure area.

If you’re flying Cebu Pacific domestically from Terminal 3, you can’t simply walk through international immigration to use one of these lounges.

Your boarding pass must allow you into that secured part of the airport.

For domestic passengers with a long wait, The Wings can be a more practical option because of its location in the Level 4 concession area.

Can You Visit a Lounge in Another NAIA Terminal?

I wouldn’t plan on it.

NAIA Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are completely separate passenger terminals.

Most airport lounges are also located after security or immigration, so you generally need a boarding pass for a flight departing from that terminal to reach them.

For example, if you’re departing Terminal 3, don’t travel to Terminal 1 simply because your credit card provides PAGSS access there.

You would have to travel between terminals and may not even be allowed into the secure departure area without a Terminal 1 boarding pass.

Use a lounge in the terminal where your flight departs.

What Should You Bring When Entering a Lounge?

At minimum, have your boarding pass and identification or passport ready.

If you’re using an airline benefit, you may also need your frequent-flyer membership details.

If you’re entering through Priority Pass, have your physical or digital membership card available.

For credit-card access, bring the actual eligible card even if the benefit is linked to another lounge program.

And for OFW lounges, be ready to present documentation confirming your status as an overseas Filipino worker. The government’s OFW Pass now serves as official proof of overseas employment and is recognized by Philippine airports, airlines and government agencies.

How Early Can You Enter an Airport Lounge?

This depends on the lounge.

Priority Pass lounges commonly impose maximum stays of around three or four hours.

At Terminal 1, PAGSS currently has a three-hour Priority Pass limit, A Lounge has four hours and Marhaba has three hours. Terminal 3 A Lounge currently has a four-hour maximum, while PAGSS has a three-hour maximum under Priority Pass conditions.

Airline lounges may have different rules based on your flight departure time.

Don’t arrive eight hours early expecting every lounge to let you stay the entire time.

Are NAIA Lounges Worth It?

It really depends on how long you’ll be at the airport and how you’re getting access.

If your credit card or ticket already includes the lounge, I would use it.

Airport food, coffee and drinks can add up quickly. If you can get a meal, coffee, Wi-Fi and somewhere comfortable to sit without paying extra, you’re getting real value from the benefit.

A lounge becomes even more useful when your flight is delayed.

Instead of sitting beside a crowded gate for three hours, you can eat, charge your devices and get some work done.

On the other hand, paying a substantial amount for lounge access may not make sense if you’re arriving at the airport late and boarding begins 45 minutes later.

The value comes from having enough time to actually enjoy the facilities.

Which NAIA Terminal Has the Most Lounge Options?

Terminal 1 currently offers the broadest mix of lounge types in one terminal, with PAL Mabuhay Lounge, PAGSS, A Lounge, Marhaba and the OFW Lounge.

Terminal 3 has undergone the biggest upgrade, especially with the introduction of First Meridian. It also has A Lounge, PAGSS, the OFW Lounge and The Wings for passengers who need somewhere to rest.

Terminal 2 is the simplest. It has PAL lounges in both wings, but there is currently no Priority Pass lounge listed there.

So your choices depend heavily on where you’re flying from.

Tips Before Using an NAIA Lounge

A few habits can save you a lot of frustration:

Check your terminal first, then check which lounges are actually located there. Open your lounge membership or credit-card app on the day you travel because operating hours and partnerships can change. Look at your boarding gate before getting too comfortable, especially at the much larger Terminal 3. Don’t assume “24 hours” means your particular membership is accepted 24 hours. And if you’re an OFW, check the free OFW Lounge before paying for another lounge.

The last point is especially worth remembering because NAIA now has dedicated OFW lounges at both Terminals 1 and 3, and the facilities are available free to eligible overseas Filipino workers.

Final Thoughts

The lounge situation at NAIA is much better than it used to be, but it’s also changing quickly.

Terminal 1 gives international travelers several choices, including PAL Mabuhay Lounge, PAGSS, A Lounge and Marhaba.

Terminal 2 remains centered around Philippine Airlines’ domestic lounges.

And Terminal 3 has undergone the biggest transformation with the opening of First Meridian Lounge, which is gradually replacing the old model of separate airline lounges.

The biggest thing to remember is that lounge access isn’t just about finding a lounge inside your terminal. You also need to check how you’re getting in.

Your Business Class ticket, airline status, Priority Pass membership, credit card or OFW status may all lead to different lounge options.

So before your next flight from Manila, check your terminal, check your lounge benefit and give yourself enough time to actually enjoy it.

Because if you’re going to spend several hours at NAIA anyway, a comfortable seat, some food, Wi-Fi and a good cup of coffee can make the wait a lot easier.