Leo Saet (ADB 1978–2005)
After 27 years with ADB, I opted for early retirement in 2005. That same year (using ADB discretionary benefits) I went on a seven-country tour, starting in France and ending in Italy. Participants came from all over the Philippines, and all enjoyed it very much. Since then, I have been on various trips to the United States, including Honolulu where my brother and his family are based. I also visited Australia when my only daughter got married in Melbourne, and I made a side trip to New Zealand where I met some colleagues. Consulting contracts with ADB helped pay for the travel.
The first ADB Annual Meeting I attended was in Kyoto, followed by Bali, Tashkent, and Ha Noi. I was not able attend the one in Madrid (I had a contract), but have promised myself to be at every future annual meeting, health and finances permitting. I learn a lot at the meetings, and it is a joy to see different people and places and to meet people from all walks of life. At one of the meetings, I shook hands with President and Mrs Kuroda. At another, I went on a tour with Mrs Kuroda, who mingled and talked with everyone, and we enjoyed the VIP escorts too.
For colleagues still at ADB, my advice is “enjoy life while you can” right after ADB. Traveling is in my blood, as I journeyed 2–3 times a year for over 20 years with project administration units. Thanks to ADB for giving me the opportunity to serve and the chance to travel and meet people from all walks of life. Such experiences were not even in my wildest dreams in my younger years.
Leo in Waikiki.
Mrs Haruhiko Kuroda and Leo during an ADB annual meeting.
I am now enjoying the fruits of what I sowed in my early days. My four children are married, and I have four grandchildren. I will continue to enjoy life, including traveling, while I can. All our four children are now married. The last one to marry did so in December 2011, which means that the number of my grandchildren will be increasing!