President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday welcomed the launch of the World Bank Group’s Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the Philippines, calling it a vital step toward achieving a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable nation under his administration’s vision.
Speaking during the ceremonial turnover of the CPF 2025–2031 at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañang, Mr. Marcos outlined the framework’s alignment with his five-year development plan, emphasizing its focus on healthcare, education, private sector job creation, and climate resilience.
“Our economy has grown steadily, and investments are creating quality jobs,” President Marcos said.
“But we know there is more work to be done to ensure progress is truly felt by every Filipino, wherever they may be,” he added.
The CPF outlines three key outcome areas: improving health and education systems, creating quality private sector jobs, and enhancing disaster and climate change preparedness.
The president noted these align closely with his State of the Nation Address commitments, including expanded access to healthcare, improved education, and more robust disaster response infrastructure.
In particular, the president cited the Philippines Health Systems Resilience Project as a cornerstone initiative in delivering equitable healthcare, especially in underserved regions like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
“We are giving our people not only longer lives, but hope, security, and dignity,” Marcos said.
He also stressed the importance of matching students’ skills with industry needs to prepare the youth for future leadership and innovation roles.
On job creation, the president highlighted ongoing efforts to streamline regulations, enhance infrastructure, and attract more investors to stimulate household income growth and economic competitiveness.
He said climate resilience has become more urgent in the face of global environmental changes.
“We are redefining resilience not just as the ability to bounce back, but to bounce forward,” through sustainable urban planning, environmental conservation, and anticipatory governance,” President Marcos stated.
He emphasized digital transformation and e-governance as pillars of a more reliable and transparent government, while expressing gratitude to the World Bank for its eight decades of partnership with the Philippines.
“From building infrastructure to confronting climate challenges, the World Bank has been with us every step of the way,” Mr. Marcos said.
“You have not only provided financing but also technical expertise and a collaborative spirit that pushes us to deliver lasting impact,” he added.
