Manila, December 9 (AseanAll)  — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda met with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace on December 9,2025 where they discussed the importance of strong cooperation and the bank’s support for the country’s chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026.

"ADB is committed to support 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."

ADB is planning a comprehensive package of support to help the Philippines deliver regional outcomes under the ASEAN 2026 theme of “Navigating our Future Together,” which was launched last month. This will include helping ASEAN with artificial intelligence readiness and deployment, regional connectivity and integration, and other priorities shared by President Marcos.

Headquartered in Manila, ADB has served as ASEAN’s long-standing and largest development finance partner, delivering $8 billion–$10 billion in support annually.

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.