Manila Airport Terminal 1: Locations and Facilities of Lounges Accessible with Priority Pass
In this article, the VPN Life management team, having actually used the PAGSS Lounge at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, provides a review including location, directions, food, and facilities with photos.
What is the PAGSS Lounge at Manila Airport? A Summary of Basic Information
The PAGSS Lounge is one of the most frequently used airport lounges at Manila Airport.
PAGSS stands for "Philippine Airport Ground Support Solutions," and it is operated by a company that manages lounges at major airports throughout the Philippines.
The International Terminal 1 PAGSS Lounge is a familiar option for Japanese travelers as it is accessible with a Priority Pass.
The Terminal 1 PAGSS Lounge is located towards Gate 6.
Although it is a relatively compact space, it is open 24 hours a day, which is a major advantage for those using late-night or early-morning flights.
The feeling is that "while the size is modest, the food and drinks are well-stocked, and it is significantly more comfortable than spending time in front of the gate."
How to get to the PAGSS Lounge
There is almost no need to worry about getting lost, even for first-timers.
This is because you can reach it smoothly by heading left after passing through security.
After walking for a while, you will see the entrance on your right.
Review of the food and drinks at the PAGSS Lounge
To be honest, "it passes as an airport lounge, but it will be disappointing if you expect a luxury hotel buffet."
Although the food menu includes everything from hot dishes to light snacks and desserts, it does not exceed the scope of "lounge food."
However, considering that the options for restaurants in front of the gates at Manila Airport are limited, it is very grateful to be able to eat this much food for free.
Food menu
It is a self-service buffet featuring the following types of food.
Hot dishes: Pasta, siomai, steamed buns, soup, etc.
Light snacks: Sandwiches, salads, etc.
Desserts: Fresh fruit, soft drinks, etc.
There are also Chinese-style dishes such as steamed buns and chicken soup (which you can eat with glass noodles).
Drink Menu
The drink selection is extensive, ranging from soft drinks to alcoholic beverages.
Soft drinks: Various juices, coffee (from a machine), and tea.
Alcohol: Beer (such as San Miguel), wine, and spirits.
The Philippine "San Miguel" and a coffee machine are also available, allowing you to enjoy espresso or cappuccino.
Honest impressions from our operations team, who have used many overseas lounges
Compared to lounges around the world, such as the ANA lounges at Haneda and Narita, or lounges in Thailand and Singapore, it falls a step behind in terms of food quality and interior grade.
However, compared to the area in front of the gates at Manila Airport, the PAGSS lounge is overwhelmingly more comfortable. It is quiet, cool, and offers free food and drinks. If you want to have a light meal before departure, the PAGSS lounge serves its purpose well enough.
If you set your expectations appropriately, many people will likely feel that it was "better than expected!" Conversely, if you expect a "world-class airport lounge," you might be disappointed.
PAGSS Lounge Facilities and Services
Beyond the food, let's check the facilities that affect the comfort of the lounge.
Seating and Interior
The seating mainly consists of sofas and tables, ensuring enough space to sit comfortably.
The interior is more of a "business-like space" than "luxurious." The layout accommodates both those who want to relax in sofa seats and those who want to work on their PCs at table seats.
However, it can be difficult to secure a seat during busy times. It is wise to enter early.
Wi-Fi and Power Outlets
Wi-Fi is available for free.
The connection speed is also fine.
Power outlets are located under the desk seats, but not at the sofa seats.
If you need to charge your devices, I recommend securing a desk-style seat.
Others (Flight Information Monitor, Restrooms, Atmosphere)
Flight Information Monitor: Available inside the lounge. You don't have to worry about missing your boarding time.
Restrooms: Located inside the lounge and are cleaner than those in the general area.
Atmosphere: Clearly quieter than in front of the gates. The lighting is also in a calm tone, allowing you to relax.
Temperature: The air conditioning is effective, providing relief from the heat in the Philippines.
Summary: Conclusion on whether you should use the Manila Airport PAGSS Lounge
To summarize: If you have a qualifying card, there is no reason not to use the Manila Airport PAGSS Lounge.
Who the PAGSS Lounge is for
Those who have a Priority Pass or other qualifying card
Those who want to spend their waiting time at Manila Airport comfortably
Those who want to refresh with food and drinks before their flight
Those who want a safe place to wait for late-night or early-morning flights
eSIM is recommended for using the internet in the Philippines
Methods for using the internet in the Philippines include using a pocket Wi-Fi device or a local SIM card.
However, with an eSIM, you do not need such additional equipment; you can simply download it to your smartphone to start using the internet.
The application process takes about 10 minutes, and it can be used from the first day of installation.
For more details, please see Overseas eSIM Navi.
Also, if you want to use your Japanese mobile plan as-is while abroad, the low-cost smartphone plan "ahamo" for 2,970 yen per month is recommended.
If you sign up for ahamo via eSIM, you can start using data as soon as the same day.
Once you sign up for ahamo, you can use your smartphone just as you do in Japan and enjoy comfortable mobile connectivity while abroad.
For more details, please see "My Experience Using ahamo Abroad".