The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) has raised alarms over the Konektadong Pinoy bill, a key legislative measure designed to expand internet access and encourage new players in the telecom sector. The group argues that the bill undermines constitutional provisions, jeopardizes fair competition, and could threaten national security.
While the PCTO supports the goal of improving connectivity, it warns that the bill’s current form could stifle investment and disrupt the telecommunications industry. Key concerns include provisions that violate the “one bill, one subject” rule by incorporating unrelated spectrum management policies, and the exemption of new data transmission providers from the requirement to obtain a congressional franchise and public convenience certification. This, the PCTO argues, creates an uneven regulatory playing field, undermines existing safeguards, and opens the door to potential national security risks.
The group also criticizes the bill’s potential to erode competition, particularly through its “dig once” policy, which could make infrastructure more vulnerable to sabotage, and its broad provisions for government access to private property. Additionally, the PCTO calls for a focus on ensuring new players roll out services in underserved areas, rather than duplicating efforts in well-connected regions.
In its statement, the PCTO emphasized that a more collaborative approach with lawmakers is needed to revise the bill in a way that promotes healthy competition and protects the interests of both consumers and national security.
