Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri on Thursday said Hungary is set to finalize a USD33-million (about PHP1.9 billion) loan agreement with the Philippines for the establishment of water treatment and desalination facilities aimed at improving access to clean water and strengthening the country’s climate resilience.

Zubiri made the announcement after the courtesy call of Hungarian National Assembly Speaker László Kövér on Senate President Vicente Sotto III at the Senate on Wednesday, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation.

Zubiri, who also serves as president of the Philippines–Hungary Parliamentary Friendship Group, said the proposed project highlights the growing partnership between Manila and Budapest, particularly in addressing water scarcity in coastal and rural communities.

“Napakahalaga ng proyektong ito dahil 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 (This project is important because it will bring real solutions to local water access, especially in coastal areas where freshwater is limited),” he said.

Kövér said discussions on the project have reached an advanced stage, noting that Hungary’s expertise in water treatment and desalination can provide sustainable solutions for the Philippines.

“We are talking about a loan project worth USD33 million and the funds are to be used for water treatment, water cleaning and desalination,” Kövér said through an interpreter.

“In fact, we are close to signing the agreement. And we are currently waiting for your response to the latest draft agreement,” he added.

Sotto welcomed the initiative, saying it reflects Hungary’s commitment to assist developing nations in climate adaptation and sustainable development.

“On the contrary, in the Philippines, we have an abundance of saltwater. We welcome so much the proposal to help us build desalination plants,” Sotto quipped, noting the contrast between the two countries’ water resources.

Zubiri said the project demonstrates Hungary’s continued friendship and support for the Philippines, extending beyond humanitarian aid and educational programs.

“Bilang kaibigan ng mga Pilipino, Hungary has consistently extended a hand of cooperation, from humanitarian assistance to scholarship aid and opening their economy to overseas Filipino workers in their agricultural and IT sectors (As a friend of the Filipino people, Hungary has consistently extended a hand of cooperation),” he said.

“This latest initiative will not only benefit our people but also open more opportunities for collaboration in sustainability and economic development,” he added. (PNA)