Philippines Passes Internet Bill Despite Opposition from Major Telecoms

The Philippines has passed a bill aimed at enhancing internet connectivity by promoting competition, despite opposition from major telecom carriers PLDT Inc. and Globe Telecom Inc. The government says the legislation simplifies the licensing process, promotes infrastructure sharing, and allows new players to invest in data infrastructure. However, the telecom carriers argue it is unfair and discriminatory against local firms. The bill has now become law after not being signed or vetoed by the president.

The Philippines has enacted a bill aimed at enhancing internet connectivity by promoting competition, despite strong opposition from major telecom carriers PLDT Inc. and Globe Telecom Inc. The new legislation, known as the Konektadong Pinoy bill, was passed into law after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. neither signed nor vetoed it within the 30-day legislative deadline [1].

The government argues that the bill simplifies the licensing process, promotes infrastructure sharing, and allows new and smaller players to invest in data infrastructure. These measures are intended to increase internet access and connectivity across the country. However, PLDT and Globe Telecom have expressed concerns that the bill is unfair and discriminatory against local firms that have heavily invested in infrastructure [1].

PLDT has stated that it may challenge the bill’s constitutionality in court, while Globe Telecom has urged the president to return the bill to Congress to incorporate industry feedback [1]. Both companies have indicated a willingness to engage in discussions regarding the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the bill to address their concerns [2].

Telecommunications companies PLDT and Converge ICT Solutions, Inc., have expressed a cooperative approach with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to craft the IRR in a way that addresses industry concerns. DITO Telecommunity Corp. has also supported the call for a level playing field, emphasizing that new entrants should follow the same rules as existing players [2].

Information and Communication Technology Secretary Henry Rhoel R. Aguda remains confident that the president supports the bill, which he describes as pro-consumer. The bill is expected to have a significant impact on the Philippine telecommunications industry, potentially leading to increased competition and better connectivity for consumers [2].

The passage of the Konektadong Pinoy bill marks a significant step in the Philippines' efforts to enhance internet connectivity and promote digital inclusion. However, the future implementation and impact of the bill will depend on how the IRR is crafted and how the legal challenges, if any, are resolved.

References:
[1] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-24/philippine-internet-bill-becomes-law-despite-industry-opposition
[2] https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2025/08/19/692328/konektadong-pinoy-bill-nears-lapse-irr-input-seen-as-next-option-for-telcos/