In a unanimous decision, the Philippine Senate has passed a crucial bill on February 5, 2025, aimed at revolutionizing the nation’s digital landscape. The ‘Konektadong Pinoy Act,’ or Senate Bill No. 2699, was certified as urgent by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., highlighting its importance in enhancing digital infrastructure and expanding data transmission services across the country. This legislative move is seen as a significant step towards ensuring that every Filipino has access to the internet, thereby promoting digital inclusion and competition in the sector. The bill entrusts the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) with the responsibility of overseeing policies that foster fair competition, integrate data transmission into new construction projects, manage radio frequency distribution, and ensure cybersecurity compliance among service providers. Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, a supporter of the bill, emphasized its role in bridging the digital divide, stating that it addresses the challenges of poor connectivity, high data costs, and limited access to digital services. Senator Joel Villanueva, another key figure behind the bill, praised it as a landmark in the journey towards digital inclusion, noting its potential to transform education, business, and government services. He also mentioned the government’s substantial investment of PHP7.5 billion in the Free Public Internet Access Program as part of the 2025 budget, underscoring the commitment to expanding internet accessibility nationwide.
Philippine Senate Passes Bill to Boost Internet Access and Digital Infrastructure
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