MANILA, December 16, 2008— The World Bank has signed a $200 million loan agreement with the Philippines Government to help that country cope with the impact of high food prices. The agreement, signed in Manila, will help the Philippines stabilize domestic food prices and extend support to the country’s poorest and most vulnerable people. A key element is the expansion of a government pilot project for the poor, which makes direct cash payments to poor families who send their children to school and undergo regular health check-ups.