PH, Hungary finalizing water project deal — Zubiri

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri said that Hungary is finalizing a $33 million or P1.9 billion loan agreement with the Philippines to fund its major water treatment and desalination projects.

According to Zubiri’s office, Hungary announced this during the courtesy call of Hungarian National Assembly Speaker László Kövér to Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III at the Senate on Thursday, October 15.

“Napakahalaga ng proyektong ito dahil (this project is very important because) it will bring real solutions to local water access, especially in coastal areas where freshwater is limited. Hungary’s experience in water management can help us a great deal,” Zubiri said in a statement.

Zubiri, who also serves as president of the Philippines–Hungary Parliamentary Friendship Group, said the project underscores Hungary’s commitment to assist developing countries in sustainable infrastructure.

“Climate change affects us all, and partnerships like this give us access to both technology and expertise. We can learn from Hungary’s long history in water management,” he said.

He added that Hungary’s loan offer “supports the Philippines’ continuing efforts to modernize its water infrastructure and ensure access to clean water across the country.”

“Kung matutuloy ito, makakapagpatayo tayo ng mas maayos at ligtas na water systems sa mga probinsya, we can provide cleaner and safer water systems sa mga probinsya,” Zubiri said.

(If this pushes through, we can construct quality and safe water systems in the provinces. We can provide cleaner and safer water systems in the provinces.)

Sotto, meanwhile, emphasized the Philippines’s appreciation for Hungary’s support in multilateral engagements.

“Hungary has long been our valued partner. We are grateful for your country’s continued support, including our bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term,” the Senate President said in a separate statement. — Giselle Ombay/RSJ, GMA Integrated News