Outgoing president of Asian Development Bank (ADB) Masatsugu Asakawa paid a farewell visit to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace on Thursday.
The farewell took place in the palace’s Study Room, where Marcos expressed his appreciation and gratitude for Asakawa’s tenure in the Philippines, highlighting that it had been both productive and constructive.
“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 said.
“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.
The President also expressed his intent to further integrate the ADB with the government by increasing their engagements.
“We fully intend to increase that engagements and continue to make them stronger. Again, thank you for all the help,” he said.
Marcos awarded Asakawa the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu Gold Distinction, recognizing his efforts and the strengthening of the partnership between the Philippines and ADB.