The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Tuesday expressed willingness to extend help in President Rodrigo Duterte’s quest for a lasting peace in Mindanao.

In a statement, the ADB declared its readiness to provide assistance as needed as it emphasized that it has been a major partner of the Philippine government in promoting growth, development and peace in the troubled region.

“ADB extends its condolences and support to the Philippines following two explosions that killed 20 people and wounded 111 others on 27 January in Jolo, Sulu province in southern Philippines,” the ADB statement said.

“On behalf of ADB, I offer my deepest sympathies to the people of Jolo, Sulu and to the families of the victims,” ADB Vice President Stephen Groff said.

“ADB stands ready to support the Government of the Philippines in the peace process and provide assistance as needed,” Groff added.

The ADB had started building key infrastructure projects in rural areas of Mindanao in the late 1960s to early 1970s to increase farm productivity and income.

In December 2017, it approved a $380 million loan to improve 280 kilometers of national road and bridge networks in the region.

ADB’s operations in Mindanao are focused on transport, flood control, livable cities, local economic development and investing in people, as total commitment to Mindanao’s development will increase to over $1 billion in the four years to 2021.

“The project was the first Mindanao-specific loan granted by ADB in 16 years. This was followed by the Emergency Assistance for Reconstruction and Recovery of Marawi approved in December 2018 to provide loans and grants amounting to $408 million to finance programs, projects and activities under the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program,” the ADB said.