By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong and enduring partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), calling the institution the country’s “most important partner” in fostering economic development.
During newly-elected ADB President Masato Kanda’s courtesy call in Malacañang on Wednesday, Marcos stressed the significant role the ADB has played in the Philippines’ growth, which traces its roots back to his father’s administration, the late former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.
The President highlighted the historical importance of the ADB’s establishment in the country on Dec. 19, 1966. At that time, the ADB had only 31 members, serving a predominantly agricultural region. Today, it has 69 members, with 49 based in Asia, expanding its reach and influence.
“The partnership between the ADB and the Philippines has been tremendous,” Marcos said.
The ADB has been among the Philippines’ top sources of Official Development Assistance (ODA), which funds big-ticket infrastructure projects and various government programs.
Among the initiatives supported by the ADB under the current administration are the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge Project, the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project, and the Climate Change Action Program. Other notable programs include the Build Universal Health Care Program, the Health System Enhancement to Address and Limit COVID-19 (HEAL) Project, the Competitive and Inclusive Agriculture Development Program, and the Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program.
“I mean the development that we have achieved that being assisted by the ADB, which is the most important partner that we have had in the Philippines,” Marcos stated.
Kanda, who assumed the ADB presidency on Feb. 24, expressed his commitment to continuing the strong partnership and advancing the bank’s role in helping the Philippines achieve its development goals.
He will serve the remainder of the term of former president Masatsugu Asakawa whose tenure ends on Nov. 23, 2026.
Marcos also expressed optimism about the future, noting the “increased” and “very promising” support of the ADB to the country. (PNA)
