The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed two agreements to develop the Pasig River and enhance government competitiveness.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos announced the partnership with Clean Rivers Abu Dhabi to restore the river, aiming to make it a model like the Chao Phraya in Bangkok or the Seine in Paris.
The initiative aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order 35, which mandates the rehabilitation of the Pasig River for transport, recreation, and tourism.
Another MOU signed between the Philippines and UAE focuses on improving government practices and institutional capacities, with plans to form a Joint Technical Team for leadership and financial management projects.
The agreements were signed during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, where Philippine officials emphasized collaboration between government and private sectors for sustainable development.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 13, 2025
