By Manila Bulletin
Published Aug 28, 2025 12:01 am
In a nation of over 7,000 islands, where progress is often hampered by geography, the newly enacted Konektadong Pinoy Act offers a much-needed leap toward digital inclusion. Lapsing into law on Aug. 23, 2025, the measure—also known as the Open Access in Data Transmission Act—is a landmark reform that promises to transform how Filipinos connect, learn, do business, and participate in governance. It is not just about faster internet—it is about empowering an entire nation.
For decades, the Philippines has grappled with one of the slowest and most expensive internet services in Southeast Asia. Despite the government's Free Wi-Fi for All initiative and the establishment of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), connectivity has remained uneven, especially in far-flung and underserved areas.
The Konektadong Pinoy Act removes the outdated requirement for data transmission providers to secure a congressional franchise—long seen as a major barrier to entry for new players. This single provision alone opens the door for small and community-based Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to compete with larger telcos. Infrastructure sharing and streamlined permitting processes, both key features of the law, are expected to further drive down costs, accelerate service rollouts, and encourage innovation in the sector.
Senator Imee Marcos, the principal author of the law, captured its human impact: “No student will be left behind in class, no OFW call will be cut, and no business will be left behind just because of poor internet.” The law also mandates priority infrastructure near schools and guarantees student discounts—both of which reflect a commitment to digital equity in education.
The most compelling case for the law’s necessity was laid out by Manila Bulletin columnist and technology advocate Mon Ibrahim, who called the Act “not just timely but an absolute necessity for the nation’s future.” In his column published early this year, Ibrahim highlighted how the lack of connectivity has sidelined millions from economic opportunities, quality education, and digital innovation. “In an AI economy, digital connectivity is no longer a luxury—it’s a lifeline,” he wrote.
Indeed, the law's potential impact on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly outside Metro Manila, cannot be overstated. With affordable internet, these businesses can finally tap into e-commerce, adopt digital tools, and compete more effectively in a fast-moving economy. Sectors such as agriculture and tourism, often left out due to weak connectivity, can now join the digital mainstream through innovations like precision farming and virtual travel platforms.
Equally important is the law’s role in laying the groundwork for the country’s digital transformation. Stable internet access is foundational for artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and big data technologies to flourish—technologies that will define the next generation of development. From AI-powered diagnostics in rural clinics to smart traffic systems in urban areas, these advancements all hinge on one thing: reliable, affordable connectivity.
While telco giants have raised concerns about regulatory fairness and cybersecurity, the law provides for proper safeguards, including oversight mechanisms, performance audits, and protections against foreign government control. With proper implementation, these fears can be addressed without compromising the law’s spirit of openness and inclusion.
The Konektadong Pinoy Act is not just about improving download speeds—it’s about building a future-ready, digitally empowered Philippines. In bridging the digital divide, it brings us closer to a vision where every Filipino, regardless of location or income, can participate in and benefit from the digital revolution.
It’s a long-overdue connection—one that Filipinos deserve.
