Cartoon By: Aaron Paul C. Caril
EDITORIAL
Enhancing access to quality education
and healthcare services
In a press release last year, the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) announced the launching of a significant six-year partnership between the Philippine government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This partnership, a key component of the country’s development agenda, is set to make substantial contributions to the nation’s progress.
ADB, through its Country Partnership Strategy (CPS), is not simply supporting projects but is laying the groundwork for a better future for the Philippines, according to President Marcos’ statement.
The ADB CPS for 2024-2029 will focus on three key areas: (a) strengthening human development, (b) boosting economic competitiveness and quality infrastructure, and (c) sustaining natural resources and ecosystems while enhancing disaster resilience.
Cross-cutting initiatives such as digital transformation, gender equality, and improved governance will ensure a holistic approach to development that complements the three focus areas.
ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa expressed his optimism, saying, “I want to reaffirm ADB’s strong commitment to supporting the Philippines’ economic and social transformation through our new Country Partnership Strategy. Building on our shared successes, I am confident that together we will achieve remarkable progress in this new chapter of our partnership.” This commitment is a beacon of hope for the future of the Philippines.
The CPS will prioritize investments aimed at enhancing access to quality education and healthcare services, particularly for marginalized and low-income communities. The partnership will continue to support flagship social assistance programs, such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). These programs are essential for safeguarding vulnerable populations against economic shocks and helping reduce income inequality.
As the country’s leading multilateral development partner and the second-largest source of official development assistance (ODA), ADB has made a total net commitment of USD 8.84 billion, comprising 26 ODA loans and 23 ODA grants to the Philippines.
ADB has a robust track record of fighting against corruption. Unlike the usual projects funded by the Philippine government under the General Appropriations Act, ADB has built mechanisms to ensurethat every dollar of its development funds goes to its intended beneficiaries and is not lost to corruption or fraud. This commitment to integrity should reassure the public of ADB’s dedication to their cause.
ADB admits its“biggest challenge is getting our stakeholders on board in our anticorruption efforts. That means changing the mindsets of governments, executing agencies, corporations, and civil societies.”
The partnership between the Philippines and ABD is a powerful symbol of hope in the fight against corruption. It strongly indicates that our country can still rise above the disgusting corrupt practices within the government. In fighting against corruption, ADB said we have to be hopeful. If civil society says it will not tolerate corruption, we will see things change. This partnership is an inspiration for all those who believe in a better, more just future.(References: neda.gov.ph and adb.org)