Though wrought with challenges, our Center has kept pace with the dynamics and needs of the times, and will continue to do so. The coming years will see SEARCA creating more capacity-building avenues, fully recognizing that the development of the region, where two-thirds of the population are poor and largely dependent on agriculture for their existence, requires a bedrock of dynamic public institutions and well-trained personnel.

SEARCA's accomplishments in the past four decades had been possible because of the unstinting support of the Center's partners within and beyond Southeast Asia -- be they governments, international development organizations, financing institutions, nongovernment organizations, and individuals. We take this opportunity to say, "thank you!"

In gratefulness for the past many years of productive labor and fruitful collaborations, we invite you to join us in the celebration of our 40th Anniversary. We have provided this special anniversary website to keep you abreast with the Center's programs and activities in the succeeding months. This website also showcases momentous events, milestones, and accomplishments in the forty years of our being.

While we gladly look back on the accomplishments of the past, we realize that poverty-stricken households continue to thrive. There is much to do. Let's work together for a strong and prosperous Southeast Asia!

ARSENIO M. BALISACAN, PhD