Telcos Urge Review of Konektadong Pinoy Act Over Security, Regulatory Concerns

The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) has urged the administration to reconsider the Konektadong Pinoy Act, warning that the newly ratified bill could weaken regulatory safeguards and expose the country to national security risks if signed into law without revisions.

While the PCTO supports the bill’s aim of expanding internet access, its president Atty. Froilan Castelo said the measure as passed by Congress removes key regulatory requirements—such as legislative franchises and CPCNs—for new players in the data transmission sector. This, he noted, creates a regulatory imbalance that could endanger both fairness and national cybersecurity.

The group also flagged the exemption of satellite direct access services from registration with the DICT or NTC, arguing this contradicts the law’s own stance on technology neutrality. In addition, new players are granted a two-year grace period to comply with cybersecurity standards, which the PCTO said is unacceptable given today’s digital threats.

Another major concern is that the bill lacks a mandate for new providers to serve remote or underserved regions, possibly encouraging them to focus solely on profitable urban markets.

The PCTO cited the POGO law as an example of how rushed, under-reviewed legislation can create long-term regulatory issues and urged the government to adopt a more deliberate, consultative approach.

The group called for clear and enforceable implementing rules to ensure digital inclusivity, industry stability, and national security.