MANILA: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Thursday (Jan 23) acknowledged the contributions of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to the country’s progress, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
During outgoing ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa’s farewell call at Malacanang, Marcos expressed gratitude for the bank’s assistance to government initiatives.
“I have to always thank you for the involvement of ADB. The partnership of ADB and the Philippines has certainly grown to a great deal,” Marcos told Asakawa.
“Of particular note, it was the support of ADB during the pandemic. That was critical. That was absolutely critical for our recovery. Without your help it would have been a much more difficult situation for us,” he added.
Marcos noted that the ADB has always been at the forefront of all foreign-assisted projects in the country.
“We fully intend to increase that engagements and continue to make them stronger. Again, thank you for all the help,” he said.
During their meeting, Marcos also conferred upon Asakawa the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross) Gold Distinction to recognise his significant efforts to deepen the partnership between the Philippines and ADB.
Asakawa has served as ADB president for five years. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
