Konektadong Pinoy Law Bridges Philippines’ Digital Divide
MANILA — The newly enacted Konektadong Pinoy law promises to bridge the digital divide by offering faster, more reliable internet access across the Philippines. Senate President Francis Escudero and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano highlighted the law’s crucial role in ensuring Filipinos nationwide can access vital information and services online.
Both senators released statements following the bill’s passage into law last Sunday, despite the absence of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s signature. The Konektadong Pinoy law aims to transform the country’s internet landscape, particularly benefiting underserved and remote communities.
Understanding the Konektadong Pinoy Law
The Open Access in Data Transmission Act, known as the Konektadong Pinoy law, allows new internet service providers (ISPs) to operate without needing a legislative franchise. This streamlines the licensing process and encourages infrastructure sharing among providers.
Escudero described the legislation as a “giant step” towards delivering affordable and dependable internet service to many areas, especially those far from urban centers. “The Philippines has one of the highest internet connectivity costs in the world, considering the speeds it offers to consumers. But more than bringing down the rates, the Konektadong Pinoy Act is about providing greater access to information and markets to Filipinos who live far from the cities and in remote areas,” he said.
Empowering Filipinos Through Digital Access
Highlighting issues of inaccessibility, unreliable service, and high costs, Escudero stressed the urgent need to empower Filipinos with better connectivity. “It is about time that we empower Filipinos through greater access to information and connectivity,” he added.
By encouraging more competitors to enter the market, the law is expected to foster lower prices and increased options for internet users. This competition could drive improvements in service quality and affordability nationwide.
Focus on Education and Infrastructure
Senator Cayetano, who championed the bill in the Senate, welcomed its enactment, emphasizing that it ensures “all Filipinos have access to, and the use of, affordable, quality, and up-to-date information and communication technologies.”
Cayetano also highlighted the law’s priority to develop internet infrastructure near schools and provide discounted internet services to students in both public and private institutions. He expressed hope that the law, alongside other initiatives, would help expand free WiFi connectivity in schools. “We honor these concepts to provide connectivity to those who need it the most. If all of these different laws work, we hope to have free WiFi in the schools to help the students,” he said.
Security Assurances and Concerns
Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda assured the public that the new law would uphold the country’s cybersecurity standards. “Under the final version of the bill, all incoming telcos are required to comply with strict cybersecurity standards set by the DICT, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and other relevant agencies,” he said.
However, some consumer groups have expressed caution. CitizenWatch Philippines urged the president to veto the bill, warning that it could allow unvetted competitors, including foreign-controlled entities, to operate without sufficient oversight. They noted potential risks such as “serious security vulnerabilities” and the possibility of triggering a “national crisis situation.”
Despite differing views, the Konektadong Pinoy law marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to improve digital access and connectivity.
For more news and updates on Konektadong Pinoy law and digital connectivity, visit Filipinokami.com.
