Insider Spotlight
The early release, ordered by Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda, is expected to fast-track digital infrastructure expansion and provide affordable internet access—especially in remote communities.
“Layunin nitong pabilisin ang koneksyon, pababain ang halaga... at palawakin ang access sa internet lalo na sa mga lugar na unserved, underserved at sa mga GIDAs,” Aguda said during a Malacañang briefing on Nov. 5.
(Its goal is to speed up connectivity, lower costs, and expand internet access—especially in unserved and underserved areas and to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs)
Why it matters
The law, identified as a priority measure under President Marcos Jr.'s digitalization agenda, mandates the simplification of market entry for new “data transmission industry participants” (DTIPs), promotes infrastructure sharing, and enforces cybersecurity compliance based on providers’ risk profiles.
It also introduces a “Dig Once Policy” to minimize redundant construction and reduce rollout costs.
By encouraging community-based and micro DTIPs, the law aims to enable local cooperatives and social enterprises to establish networks in GIDAs—a crucial step toward bridging the digital divide.
Voices from the field
“The inclusion of community-based networks ensures that local communities, social enterprises, and cooperatives can now legally own and operate networks in their areas,” said Gomer Padong of the Institute for Social Entrepreneurship in Asia.
“KP empowers their homegrown solutions to connect the unconnected.”
Joel Dabao, president of KCAT, a small internet service provider, added: “We welcome the signing of the Konektadong Pinoy Act IRR … a clear step toward inclusive, proportionate regulation.”
The big picture
Signed into law in August 2025, the Konektadong Pinoy Act supports the Bagong Pilipinas vision of inclusive, innovation-driven growth—where, as the government says, “no Filipino will be left offline.” —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
