Internet connectivity in this digital age is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
This is why the enactment of measures to enable wider and better access to internet services is vital not only to bridge the digital divide but also crucial for economic growth and the future of Filipinos.
Last month, the House of Representatives passed the proposed “Sana All May Internet Act,” while Senator Loren Legarda is pushing for the passage of the “Konektadong Pinoy Act” in the Senate.
The House bill proposes to eliminate the spectrum users fee (SUF) that telecommunications companies currently pay to the national government regulator for the use of specific frequencies.
Among others, the measure also seeks to enable the proliferation of Wi-Fi technology usage and facilitate infrastructure development that is expected to pave the way for lower cost of delivering telecommunications services to end users. It likewise aims to “promote the acceleration of internet use in the country and the expansion of Wi-Fi technology and infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas so the poor and underprivileged shall have access to reliable, accessible, and affordable connectivity.”
The proposed Konektadong Pinoy Act, on the other hand, aims to democratize internet access by fostering fair competition and removing barriers to entry in the data transmission sector. This legislation is designed to lower costs and increase access to high-quality internet services for all Filipinos, thereby narrowing the digital divide.
The two initiatives are not just about connectivity; it’s about creating opportunities. By ensuring that even the most remote areas have reliable internet access, the proposed Sana All May Internet Act and Konektadong Pinoy Act can help drive economic stability and growth. It will enable businesses to expand their digital services, students to access online learning resources, and communities to engage more fully in the digital economy.
Improved internet connectivity can transform the Philippine economy in several ways. Further growth in business is expected as faster and more reliable internet allows businesses to reach new markets and operate more efficiently. This can lead to increased productivity and job creation.
With better internet access, students can benefit from a wealth of online resources, enhancing their learning experiences and educational outcomes.
Likewise, enhanced connectivity will make telemedicine more accessible, providing remote communities with essential health services.
Improved government services are also expected with better internet connectivity. E-governance initiatives can streamline public services, making them more efficient and accessible to citizens.
To help the government prepare for the implementation of these initiatives, examining the best practices of other countries is crucial to provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges.
For instance, Australia’s National Broadband Network (NBN) has improved connectivity across the country, though the project faced criticism for cost overruns and delays.
In Sweden, which is known for its excellent internet infrastructure, its approach includes significant government investment and public-private partnerships. This model has resulted in widespread high-speed internet access, contributing to the country’s high standard of living.
The government may also visit the internet program of the Netherlands, which boasts of one of the highest internet penetration rates in the world. The country’s success is attributed to a competitive market and robust regulatory framework that encourages innovation and investment.
With the right policies and investments, the country can harness the power of the internet to build a brighter future for all Filipinos.