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Economic development

Philippines' Official Development Assistance Portfolio Sees 6% Growth in 2024

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Philippines' official development assistance (ODA) portfolio saw a 6% growth to USD39.61 billion in 2024, driven by new loan commitments on infrastructure projects, particularly those supporting the Marcos administration's Infrastructure Flagship Projects. The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) attributed the increase to partnerships with key development partners, including Japan, the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and South Korea.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 2024 ODA portfolio consists of 426 loans and grants, including 92 project loans, 19 program loans, and 315 grants.
  • Japan remains the country's biggest partner, with USD13.23 billion in active commitments, supporting 82 loans and grants.
  • Transport and connectivity infrastructure accounted for the largest share of the 2024 ODA portfolio, both in value (USD42.81 billion) and number (120 loans or grants).
  • Social reform and community development represented the third-largest share, with USD5.4 billion allocated to health, education, social protection, and human capital development programs.
  • In line with the government's climate agenda, 60 ODA-funded projects include components supporting climate change adaptation, mitigation, and disaster risk reduction.
  • The DEPDev completed six major ODA projects in 2024, including the Department of Public Works and Highways' (DPWH) Arterial Road Bypass Project Phase III and the Panguil Bay Bridge Project.
  • The government's whole-of-government approach aims to maximize assistance from development partners by strategically aligning development financing with spending priorities.

Statistics:

  • The Philippines' ODA portfolio saw a 6% growth to USD39.61 billion in 2024.
  • 426 loans and grants make up the 2024 ODA Portfolio.
  • USD13.23 billion in active commitments come from Japan alone.
  • 120 loans and grants are dedicated to transport and connectivity infrastructure, valued at USD42.81 billion.
  • 113 loans and grants are allocated to social reform and community development, valued at USD5.4 billion.
  • 60 ODA-funded projects include components supporting climate change adaptation, mitigation, and disaster risk reduction.

Sources:

  • Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev)
  • 2024 ODA Portfolio Review Report
  • Separate statements from DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan
  • Data from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other government agencies

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