MANILA, Feb. 2 -- The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has encouraged the private sector to invest in the government's several transportation projects under the public-private partnership (PPP).

During his speech before the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Makati City Thursday, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said such investments are "highly investible" and would speed up the completion of government projects.

"You can discover their investment potential under the PPP scheme. Private sector investment will allow us to fast-track their completion," he said.

Bautista said the government is open to private partners for these projects due to "public funding challenges."

Of the 198 infrastructure flagship projects approved ...