MANILA — The newly enacted Konektadong Pinoy Act, designed to slash internet costs and expand access nationwide, was hailed by senators Monday as a transformative step toward bridging the digital divide for Filipino families, students, overseas workers, and small businesses.
The law, officially titled the Open Access in Data Transmission Act, simplifies market entry for smaller telecom providers and mandates infrastructure sharing to accelerate internet rollout—measures aimed at driving down prices and increasing consumer choice, according to Senate President Francis Escudero.
“The Philippines ranks among the world’s most expensive for internet connectivity relative to speed,” Escudero said. “This law empowers Filipinos by guaranteeing broader access to information and connection.”
Principal author Senator Imee Marcos emphasized the law’s potential to end chronic issues of slow, unaffordable service. “No student will be left behind in class, no OFW [overseas Filipino worker] call will be cut, and no business will be abandoned due to poor internet,” she declared.
The legislation includes safeguards for consumers, such as mandatory student discounts and strict timelines for resolving service complaints. It also requires priority installation of internet infrastructure near schools and sets minimum service standards to ensure reliability.
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who steered the bill through the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, stressed alignment with broader digital initiatives, including the E-Governance Act and national broadband plans. “We’re modernizing our digital backbone to ensure all Filipinos can access affordable, quality technology,” he said.
The Konektadong Pinoy Act took effect August 23 after lapsing into law without presidential veto. By lowering barriers to competition and standardizing service, lawmakers hope to turn around years of frustration over subpar connectivity in both urban and remote areas.
