National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Reports Robust Official Development Assistance (ODA) Portfolio for 2022
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) announces that the active portfolio of Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans and grants extended to the Philippines reached a commendable USD 32.40 billion in 2022. This significant figure underscores the government’s steadfast commitment to addressing the socioeconomic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and driving transformative change across various sectors.
According to the CY 2022 Official ODA Portfolio Review Report released by NEDA, the Philippines received a total of 106 loans amounting to USD 30.20 billion and 320 grants equivalent to USD 2.20 billion from 20 development partners. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) emerged as the leading contributor, accounting for 33 percent of the total ODA, highlighting the robust partnerships fostering economic development in the country.
NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan highlighted the country’s strategic shift, stating, “The significant reduction in ODA devoted to addressing damages brought by COVID-19 reflects the country’s transition towards the new normal and is now focusing on achieving growth in the post-pandemic world.”
In 2022, the infrastructure sector received the lion’s share of ODA, totaling USD 16.07 billion. These investments bolstered the ‘Build-Build-Build’ infrastructure program initiated by the Duterte administration, now continued under the ‘Build-Better-More’ program by the current Marcos administration. Notable projects include the Capacity Enhancement of Mass Transit Systems in Metro Manila LRT Line 1 South Extension, Cebu-Mactan Bridge and Coastal Road Construction Project, and the Second Health System Enhancement to Address and Limit COVID-19.
Other sectors also benefited substantially from ODA funds in 2022, with investments in Governance and Institutions Development reaching USD 7.16 billion, Social Reform and Community Development at USD 6.14 billion, Agriculture, Agrarian Reform, and Natural Resources at USD 2.66 billion, and Industry, Trade, and Tourism at USD 0.37 billion.
Secretary Balisacan emphasized, “In line with the goal of enabling sustainable growth and significantly reducing poverty, the ODA acquired in 2022 underscores the government’s continued emphasis on developing robust infrastructure, fostering good governance, promoting social reforms, enhancing agriculture and natural resources, and driving industry, trade, and tourism for comprehensive and sustainable development.”
The release of the CY 2022 Official ODA Portfolio Review Report marks a transparent disclosure of the government’s commitment and effective utilization of foreign assistance. The report is available for public access here.
About NEDA:
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is the premier socioeconomic planning body in the Philippines, responsible for formulating policies and programs to promote sustainable economic growth and development. NEDA envisions a resilient and prosperous Filipino society, guided by evidence-based and inclusive planning.
About Official Development Assistance (ODA):
ODA comprises loans and grants provided by foreign governments and international organizations to developing countries to support economic, social, and environmental development efforts. ODA plays a crucial role in fostering global partnerships and advancing sustainable development goals.