The Konektadong Pinoy Bill, also known as the Open Access in Data Transmission Bill, has lapsed into law, Malacañang said 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.
Reacting to the news, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Sunday said it is a welcome development.
The new law aims to ensure universal, reliable, and affordable internet for every Filipino, the DICT said.
“The Konektadong Pinoy Act is not just about building networks; it’s about building opportunities for every Filipino,” DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said.
He added that the agency will immediately convene stakeholders to draft the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), co-leading the process with the Department of Development (DepDev). Under the new law, the IRR must be finalized within 90 days.
“By making internet access truly universal, we are creating a foundation for better education, e-commerce growth, accessible government services, and stronger communities,” Aguda said. “The President’s vision is clear: no Filipino should be left behind in the digital age.”
Certain groups, however, warned that the new law could lead to serious national security and regulatory risks.
The lack of sufficient safeguards against potential data breaches and foreign interference, which could undermine the country’s digital security and consumer protection framework, emerged as a significant concern.
That the law removes the requirement for new telecommunications service providers to secure a congressional franchise or a certificate of public convenience and necessity, was another concern.
The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) urged the government to establish tighter implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the law, also citing national security risks and fairness issues.
The group said the law creates a “two-tier system” where existing players are fully regulated while new entrants operate with fewer checks.
Allaying these fears, the DICT said that the law will not allow foreign-controlled entities to gain access to the country’s internet systems without proper audit and preventive measures.
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.
