The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is urging the Philippines to leverage public-private partnerships (PPPs) to address its significant infrastructure deficit and mitigate rising debt levels. ADB Country Director Andrew Jeffries highlighted the growing demand driven by rapid urbanization and economic expansion, emphasizing the need for infrastructure to keep pace. While acknowledging the government's "Build Better More" and prior "Build Build Build" programs, Jeffries pointed out fiscal pressures and budget constraints as challenges. He stated that private sector involvement is crucial for maintaining or reducing public debt, which reached 65.2% of GDP in the first quarter with national debt at P18.49 trillion. The current PPP pipeline includes 250 projects totaling P3.13 trillion, with railways dominating this segment. ADB continues to heavily invest in transport projects in the Philippines, valuing its transport portfolio at over $7 billion.