MANILA, Philippines — The Konektadong Pinoy Bill, also known as the Open Access in Data Transmission Bill, has lapsed into law, Malacañang confirmed on Sunday, August 24.
The bill aims to expand internet access, streamline the licensing process for internet service providers and encourage new and smaller companies to enter the market.
Red flags. Some groups, however, raised red flags on the law, saying that it could lead to serious national security and regulatory gaps.
According to CitizenWatch Philippines lead convenor Orlando Oxales, the proposed measure lacks sufficient safeguards against potential data breaches and foreign interference, which could undermine the country’s digital security and consumer protection framework.
The group also pointed out that the law removes the requirement for new telecommunications service providers to secure a congressional franchise or a certificate of public convenience and necessity, and it also limits the regulatory authority of the National Telecommunications Commission.
These changes could allow unvetted players, including potentially foreign-controlled entities, to operate critical infrastructure without meaningful oversight, leading to security vulnerabilities and a national crisis.
The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) also urged the government to establish tighter implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the law, also citing national security risks and fairness issues.
PCTO president Froilan Castelo said that the law creates a “two-tier system” where existing players are fully regulated while new entrants operate with fewer checks.
In response, the Department of Information and Communications Technology said that the law will not allow foreign-controlled entities to gain access to the country’s internet systems without proper vetting.
The agency stated that it will work with national security agencies to ensure that no foreign-controlled entity gains access to critical digital infrastructure without undergoing multi-layered vetting and continuous monitoring.
