The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is set to approve new loans for the Philippine government’s transport, infrastructure, and social sector projects as part of its 2025 lending program. Among the projects lined up for financing is the next tranche for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), a major infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity between Clark Airport and Calamba, Laguna. The upcoming funding package, primarily covering the Malolos-Clark segment, is expected to exceed USD1 billion.
In addition to transport investments, ADB is also planning to finance social development initiatives, including a proposed USD300 million to USD400 million allocation for the government’s food voucher program. The initiative, launched by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, provides beneficiaries with electronic transfer cards loaded with food credits. ADB’s broader lending program for the Philippines from 2024 to 2029 amounts to USD24 billion, with further details on 2025 allocations expected after consultations with government stakeholders in March or April 2025.