By the staff
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has pledged strong support for the Philippines as it prepares to chair the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, signaling closer collaboration on regional reforms and innovation.
ADB president Masato Kanda met President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace on Tuesday, underscoring the bank’s commitment to helping ASEAN become “more competitive, resilient, and sustainable.”
“I was pleased that our proposals were welcomed by President Marcos and we look forward to working together on the success of ASEAN 2026,” Kanda said.
ADB plans a wide-ranging package to assist the Philippines in delivering on the ASEAN 2026 theme, “Navigating our Future Together,” focusing on artificial intelligence readiness, regional connectivity, and integration, along with other priorities outlined by Marcos.
Headquartered in Manila, ADB has long been ASEAN’s largest development finance partner, disbursing $8 billion–$10 billion annually. Founded in 1966, the bank has 69 members, including 50 from Asia-Pacific.
