PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. yesterday conferred the Order of Sikatuna, with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross) Gold Distinction, to outgoing Asian Development Bank (ADB) president Masatsugu Asakawa in recognition of the agency’s continuing support to the Philippines.
Marcos, during Asakawa’s farewell call, expressed his sadness at the end of the latter’s term.
The President said Asakawa is being recognized for his significant efforts to deepen the partnership between the Philippines and ADB, and his exceptional leadership in guiding the ADB to remain responsive to the needs and aspirations of the Filipino people, particularly in the areas of economic development, health, infrastructure investment, climate resilience, and human capital development.
Asakawa began his term on January 17, 2020 and served as ADB president for five years.
Marcos said the ADB has been a big help in the country’s development – from its aid during the height of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to being at the forefront of all foreign-assisted projects in the Philippines.
“The partnership of ADB and the Philippines has certainly grown a great deal. Of particular note, it was the support of ADB during the pandemic. That was very critical for our recovery. Without your help it would have been a much more difficult situation for us,” the President said.
Marcos added that he looks forward to continued and increased engagements between ADB and the Philippines under Asakawa’s successor.