(PNA) MANILA – The Senate of the Philippines approved on Wednesday a bill, certified urgent by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aimed at enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure and expanding data transmission services, a move lawmakers say will promote competition and improve internet access nationwide.
Unanimously supported by senators, Senate Bill No. 2699 or the “Konektadong Pinoy Act” seeks to create a comprehensive and inclusive data transmission framework, focusing on expanding connectivity, ensuring fair competition, and modernizing the country’s digital infrastructure.
It mandates the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to oversee policies that ensure fair competition, integrate data transmission into construction projects, manage radio frequency distribution, and enforce cybersecurity compliance among service providers.
One of the senators who voted “yes” was Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, who called the measure a “promise to ensure no Filipino is left behind in the digital age.”
“Millions struggle with poor connectivity, high data costs, and limited access to digital services. This bill changes that,” Estrada said, underscoring the need for investments in fiber-optic and satellite technology to expand broadband access nationwide.
Senator Joel Villanueva, a co-author and co-sponsor of the bill, also expressed his support, recognizing the legislation as a milestone in achieving digital inclusion.
“In an era where reliable and affordable internet access is a necessity, not a luxury, this bill ensures that no Filipino is left behind,” he said, highlighting its impact on education, business, and government services.
Villanueva also noted the government’s commitment to digital expansion, citing the PHP7.5 billion allocation for the Free Public Internet Access Program in the 2025 General Appropriations Act.
He said the passage of the Konektadong Pinoy Act will allow for even greater investment in nationwide internet accessibility. (PNA)