PCC backs Konektadong Pinoy Act
'The PCC believes that incorporating competition principles into the country's digital connectivity framework is essential to improving telecommunications services,' the antitrust-trust body said in a statement.
The PCC said the Konektadong Pinoy law is a landmark reform that will help build a more inclusive, competitive, and consumer-centric digital economy, where innovation and accessibility are driven by market competition.
The bill, however, is facing criticism from telecoms stakeholders including the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO), composed of the country's leading telcos, and the Philippine Association of Private Telecommunications Companies (PAPTELCO).
The PCTO called for a review of the ratified version of the measure, citing national security concerns and weakening of regulatory oversight among new entrants in the country's connectivity service sector.
PAPTELCO, on the other hand, urged Marcos to veto the bill also flagging national security issues as new players would no longer be required to secure a legislative franchise.
Under the measure, new data transmission players are no longer required to secure a legislative franchise or Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN).
PCC chairperson Michael Aguinaldo, in the bill's defense, said provisions of the Konektadong Pinoy Act such as streamlining the approval process for telecommunications providers, promoting open access, and reducing market entry barriers, 'are aligned with the PCC's mandate to foster fair and open markets.'
'By institutionalizing competition in the digital infrastructure sector, the bill can help lower costs, improve service quality, and expand access, especially in underserved areas,' Aguinaldo said.
The PCC chief said the bill also reinforces the state's commitment to data inclusivity and consumer welfare by encouraging a more dynamic and responsive telecommunications market.
Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda earlier defended the bill, noting that it would increase competition in the country's telecoms space and eventually lower cost of services for the benefit of the consuming public. — BAP, GMA Integrated News
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