Telecommunications giant PLDT Inc. and industry group Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) have called for a review of the proposed Konektadong Pinoy Act (KPA), urging lawmakers to ensure a fair and secure competitive environment.
At PLDT’s annual stockholders’ meeting, chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan emphasized the need for a “level playing field,” warning against policies that could unfairly favor new entrants. “We are prepared to compete, but… we don’t ask for protective measures,” Pangilinan said, cautioning that the bill, in its current form, could compromise industry investments and national security.
Echoing this, PLDT senior vice president Marilyn Victorio-Aquino noted that while competition is welcome, it must be “fair and sustainable,” warning against “ruinous competition” that may harm consumers.
Passed by the Senate in February, the KPA seeks to simplify market entry for service providers to boost internet access and consumer choice. However, PCTO contends that the bill duplicates existing laws—particularly the Amended Public Service Act (RA 11659)—and undermines constitutional requirements for congressional franchises, potentially creating regulatory confusion.
The PCTO also urged the inclusion of rollout mandates in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) for new entrants to ensure inclusive development and protect existing infrastructure investments outside such regions.
The petition underscores the corporate and commercial stakes involved, as major telecom players push back against legislation they fear could destabilize the competitive landscape and weaken national safeguards.
