President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. extended his well wishes to Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masatsugu Asakawa, who is stepping down from his post in February next year.

During the launch and ceremonial turnover of the ADB Philippines Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) 2024-2029 in Malacañag, Marcos Jr. said he is saddened by Asakawa’s decision.

“But I am very confident that the good work that you have started in your time that you have been here, that we will be able to continue on the basis of the foundations that you have laid in the time that you have spent here in the Philippines,” the President.

“And we thank you for all of the help that you have brought to the Philippines, all the support that through you ADB has given to the Philippines in many, many ways. And we wish you the best in all your future endeavors,” he added.

Asakawa, for his part, said that he’s honored to witness the launch of the CPS 2024-2029 for the Philippines at Malacañan Palace, where he announced his intention to step down from his post.

“It has been a profound privilege to serve in this role, and I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the government and the people of the Philippines throughout my tenure of five years. ADB’s partnership with the Philippines is long-standing and deeply valued,” he also said.