The Senate of the Philippines has taken a major step toward digital transformation with the approval of the Konektadong Pinoy Act, also known as Senate Bill No. 2699 or the Open Access in Data Transmission Act. The bill, which aims to enhance Internet accessibility, promote fair competition, and streamline industry regulations, was passed on its third and final reading on 05 February 2025, with a unanimous 16-0-0 vote. The proposed legislation now heads to the bicameral conference committee, where lawmakers will reconcile any differences between the Senate and House versions before sending it to Malacañang for the President’s signature.
Revolutionizing the Internet Landscape
The passage of the Konektadong Pinoy Act follows years of advocacy from business groups, digital rights organizations, and technology leaders who have long pushed for reforms in the country’s internet sector. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the bill’s urgency by certifying it as an urgent measure on 27 January 2025, expediting its approval.
At its core, the bill simplifies the licensing process for network providers, giving the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) greater authority to regulate and approve industry applications. These reforms are designed to encourage new investments, foster competition, and extend internet services to underserved and remote communities.
Widespread Industry & Consumer Support
A strong coalition of industry leaders and advocacy groups has voiced support for the bill, including the Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation (ATIN), American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AMCHAM), Internet Society – Philippines Chapter (ISOC-PH), Fintech Alliance.PH, and Mozilla Philippines (MozillaPH).
These organizations highlight that the Philippines lags behind its Southeast Asian neighbors in terms of internet speed, affordability, and accessibility due to outdated regulations. Mozilla Philippines, the local representative of the global non-profit Mozilla, emphasized that bridging the digital divide is critical for economic growth, education, and technological advancement.
“A significant number of Filipinos continue to live in communities without stable and affordable internet connectivity, hindering them from utilizing available technology that would make their daily lives easier. With the approval of the Konektadong Pinoy measure, these communities will be able to participate more actively in the country’s economic development,” according to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian following the Senate’s approval of the measure, which he co-authored. Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, advanced the bill to its second and third readings following pressure from supporters of the proposed legislation.
Addressing Security & Consumer Protection Concerns
While the bill enjoys broad support, some groups, including the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) and some security analysts, have raised concerns.
Critics argue that removing the congressional franchise requirement for access to radio frequencies could make the country vulnerable to foreign cyberattacks and espionage. However, this concern misinterprets the bill’s provisions.
The NTC will still regulate spectrum allocation, ensuring that only qualified and vetted entities can operate in the telecommunications sector. In addition, existing cybersecurity laws, such as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and the Data Privacy Act of 2012, provide legal safeguards against cyber threats. In fact, by opening the industry to more players, the bill reduces overreliance on a few dominant telcos, making the system more resilient against cyberattacks.
Preventing Scams & Fraudulent Services
Consumer protection advocates warn that relaxing entry barriers could lead to an increase in scams and fraudulent telecom services. However, the bill does not remove regulatory oversight. Instead, it streamlines bureaucratic processes while maintaining strict compliance requirements.
The NTC and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will continue to monitor and enforce industry regulations, ensuring that providers comply with consumer protection laws. Stronger penalties for digital fraud and enhanced digital literacy programs can further safeguard Filipino consumers.
Fostering Market Competition & Innovation
The PCTO claims that the bill undermines fair competition by eliminating the congressional franchise requirement. However, this requirement has historically restricted new players from entering the market, allowing a few telcos to dominate.
By removing this hurdle, the bill opens the industry to new providers, encouraging innovation, investment, and better services for consumers. Furthermore, existing laws, such as the Public Services Act (PSA), already ensure fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices.
A Digital Leap Forward for the Philippines
The Konektadong Pinoy Act is a transformational step toward bridging the digital divide in the Philippines. By removing outdated restrictions while maintaining necessary security and consumer protections, the bill modernizes the country’s digital landscape and expands internet access to more Filipinos, especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).
With the bill now in the bicameral conference committee, all eyes are on lawmakers and Malacañang to finalize its provisions. If enacted, this landmark legislation will pave the way for a more competitive, secure, and digitally connected Philippines.