Konektadong Pinoy: The Game-Changer for Philippine Internet Connectivity!

LISTEN UP, PHILIPPINES! The digital divide is about to get a MAJOR overhaul with the landmark connectivity legislation, Konektadong Pinoy, poised to bring Internet connectivity to rural communities that have been left behind. This is a game-changer, folks! For years, Internet stakeholders have been advocating for changes to the country’s restrictive Internet provider regulations, and now, we’re on the brink of a revolution!

WHY IS THIS SUCH A BIG DEAL?

1. SIMPLIFIED LICENSING PROCESS: Currently, individual Internet providers must secure congressional approval to operate in the Philippines. That’s a nightmare! Konektadong Pinoy will streamline the licensing process, making it possible for new, smaller providers to enter the market and boost competition. This is a no-brainer!

2. INFRASTRUCTURE SHARING SCHEME: This will allow ISPs to share infrastructure, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. It’s a win-win!

3. SPECTRUM MANAGEMENT POLICY: This will regulate radio frequencies, ensuring that everyone has access to reliable Internet services. No more dead zones!

4. CYBERSECURITY STANDARDS AND NATIONAL SECURITY PROVISIONS: Konektadong Pinoy will improve network security by introducing cybersecurity standards, national security provisions, and performance metrics—none of which are covered by existing laws. This is crucial for protecting our digital future!

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?

- RURAL COMMUNITIES: 25% of Filipinos are still offline. Many of them live in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas where reliable, affordable, and secure Internet has remained stubbornly out of reach. For them, Konektadong Pinoy is a game-changer, as it will make it possible to build community-centered connectivity initiatives in the Philippines that can legally offer affordable Internet services to unconnected communities.

- CONSUMERS: The bill fundamentally transforms the Philippines’ Internet ecosystem for everyone. It boosts competition by making it possible for new, smaller providers to enter the market and includes consumer protections. That’s why the measure, seen by many as long overdue, has received overwhelming support across government, industry, academia, and civil society.

- INVESTORS: This is a huge opportunity for investors! With increased competition and improved infrastructure, the Internet service provider market in the Philippines is set to explode. Don’t miss out on this chance to get in on the ground floor!

WHAT’S NEXT?

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. certified the bill as urgent on 27 January, as an important part of the administration’s goals. Both houses of Congress have approved the measure and it is expected to reach the president’s desk for signature once Congress resumes in June. Konektadong Pinoy’s success is a testament to how positive change can be achieved through multi-stakeholder collaboration and cooperation. The Internet Society Philippines Chapter has consistently given its support to the open access bill by attending congressional hearings and legislative consultations, and by submitting comments to the Congress.



DON’T MISS OUT!

We look forward to seeing Konektadong Pinoy signed into law, and the positive impact it will have on affordable and reliable access for all Filipinos. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform the digital landscape of the Philippines. Don’t sit on the sidelines—get involved and be part of the change!