The Konektadong Pinoy bill, a measure aimed at reshaping the country’s digital landscape, has officially lapsed into law after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took no action within the 30-day constitutional period, Malacañang confirmed.
Palace press officer Usec. Claire Castro announced the development, noting that under the 1987 Constitution, any bill that remains unsigned or unvetoed by the president automatically takes effect as law.
The newly enacted measure—also known as the Open Access in Data Transmission Act—seeks to remove barriers for internet service providers (ISPs), open doors for more players in the market, and encourage larger investments in digital infrastructure. By eliminating the requirement for a legislative franchise, the law introduces a streamlined registration system with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), making it easier for both local and foreign firms to operate in the Philippines.
Supporters say the law will strengthen competition, lower internet costs, and expand connectivity to underserved areas, especially in provinces where reliable access remains a challenge. The Philippine Competition Commission has previously praised the measure, describing competition as key to improving telecom services.
But not everyone is convinced. The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) expressed serious reservations, warning that the version ratified by Congress could “lead to national security vulnerabilities, weaken regulatory oversight and destabilize the telco sector in the long run.”
Aside from streamlining registration, the law also mandates infrastructure sharing, stricter spectrum management policies, and mandatory cybersecurity certification for data transmission providers. It gives the NTC the authority to set performance standards and impose penalties on firms that fall short.
