IN A COUNTRY where over 45% of barangays remain disconnected from reliable internet, the Konektadong Pinoy Act offers a rare—and necessary—break from the status quo. Despite loud opposition from legacy telcos, this bill is a bold step toward fixing a telecom landscape that has long been monopolistic, underperforming, and inequitable.
For decades, dominant players have controlled access, dictated pricing, and stalled innovation. Even as the Philippines climbed the digital curve, millions were left behind. The Konektadong Pinoy Act challenges that old guard by creating space for new entrants to serve Filipinos who’ve been digitally orphaned for far too long.
Benefits: From Connectivity to Competitiveness
* Remote Education Access: In provinces like Masbate and Samar, students rely on printed modules due to lack of internet. With satellite-based services enabled by the bill, these areas could finally access real-time learning platforms, digital libraries, and virtual classrooms.
* Economic Inclusion: MSMEs in rural areas often struggle to digitize operations. The bill’s infrastructure-sharing provisions allow smaller internet service providers (ISPs) to enter the market, enabling e-commerce, mobile banking, and remote work in places like Bukidnon and Palawan.
* Healthcare Delivery: Telemedicine remains a luxury in many regions. With improved broadband rollout, barangay health centers could offer remote consultations, digital health records, and faster emergency response coordination.
* Disaster Resilience: During typhoons, communication lines are often the first to fail. The Act’s support for redundant infrastructure and satellite access ensures that even isolated communities can stay connected during crises.
* Digital Jobs and Data Centers: The bill positions the Philippines to attract hyperscale data centers and global tech investments. With submarine cable projects like Apricot and Bifrost underway, cities beyond Metro Manila—like Davao and Iloilo—could become regional tech hubs.
Safeguards: Security Without Stagnation
Critics argue the bill poses cybersecurity risks and creates an uneven playing field. But many of these arguments ring hollow—particularly when offered by entrenched providers who stand to lose their grip on the market.
* Cybersecurity Certification: All providers must undergo third-party cybersecurity audits aligned with ISO standards or DICT-recognized frameworks. This ensures that even new entrants meet global benchmarks.
* Regulatory Oversight: The DICT and NTC retain authority to audit, revoke, and enforce compliance. The bill empowers these agencies to act swiftly, without being hamstrung by lower court injunctions.
* Foreign Entity Restrictions: The Act prohibits foreign state-controlled entities from operating data transmission networks, addressing concerns about espionage and digital sabotage.
* Spectrum Management: A transparent and competitive bidding process for spectrum allocation ensures efficient use of resources and prevents hoarding by dominant players.
* Infrastructure Sharing Mandates: Large telcos must offer fair access to passive and active infrastructure, leveling the playing field for smaller providers and reducing redundant investments.
The fear that local telcos will be outpaced should be a call to compete smarter, not to block innovation. With proper regulation and implementation, this act can create a telecom sector that rewards quality and affordability, not political access and market inertia.
The Konektadong Pinoy Act isn’t just a telecom reform—it’s a national development imperative. It’s about giving every Filipino, from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi, a fair shot at participating in the digital economy. And that’s a disruption worth fighting for. (totingbunye2000@gmail.com)/PN
