Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda met with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace on Tuesday to affirm the bank’s commitment to supporting the country’s upcoming chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026.
The leaders discussed strengthening cooperation and the pivotal role the ADB will play in helping the Philippines elevate the regional body’s ambitions.
“ADB is committed to supporting the Philippines in elevating ASEAN’s ambition to become more competitive, resilient, and sustainable,” said Mr. Kanda. “I was pleased that our proposals were welcomed by President Marcos, and we look forward to working together on the success of ASEAN 2026.”
Comprehensive Support Package for ASEAN 2026
The ADB is planning a comprehensive package of support to assist the Philippines in delivering regional outcomes under the officially launched ASEAN 2026 theme: “Navigating our Future Together.”
This support will focus on key areas aligned with President Marcos’s priorities, including:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness and deployment across the region.
Enhancing regional connectivity and integration.
Other shared development priorities.
