"Konektadong Pinoy Bill: A Recipe for Regulatory Chaos in the Telecom Industry

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Konektadong Pinoy Bill A Recipe for Regulatory Chaos in the Telecom Industry

The proposed Open Access in Data Transmission Act, or Konektadong Pinoy bill, has sparked concerns among industry stakeholders. The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) has aptly pointed out that this bill is an unnecessary and unconstitutional attempt to expand internet access in the country.

In this blog post, we will delve into the concerns surrounding this bill and explore why it is a recipe for regulatory chaos in the telecom industry.

PCTO's Objections

The PCTO has raised several valid concerns about the Konektadong Pinoy bill. Firstly, they argue that the existing Amended Public Service Act (RA 11659) already provides a clear framework for new players to enter the telecommunications market. This redundancy could create confusion and regulatory overlap, ultimately hindering investment in the sector.

Secondly, the PCTO is concerned about the inclusion of broad spectrum management provisions which they argue violate the Constitution's one bill, one subject rule. By incorporating unrelated provisions, such as broadcast frequency allocation, the bill's core objective is compromised, rendering it unconstitutional.

Unequal Regulatory Environment

Thirdly, the PCTO is worried about the bill's exemption of data transmission providers from securing a congressional franchise and a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN). This unequal regulatory environment could discourage investment from existing players, ultimately achieving the contrary effect to what the bill intends.

Cybersecurity Concerns

Lastly, the PCTO is concerned about the potential cybersecurity risks associated with the bill's relaxation of regulatory scrutiny. The explosion of over-the-top services and chat apps has led to a decline in voice and SMS usage, making it crucial to maintain strong oversight to ensure national security.

Conclusion

The Konektadong Pinoy bill's unnecessary and unconstitutional provisions have raised concerns among industry stakeholders. As the PCTO emphasizes, a collaborative approach involving stakeholders across the telecommunications industry, government, and regulatory bodies is essential to address barriers to connectivity. By working together, we can create a balanced and competitive telecom landscape that benefits all Filipinos.

What's Next?

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in the telecom industry. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, it is crucial to adapt to new technologies and innovations. In our next blog post, we will explore what's next for the Konektadong Pinoy bill and how you can stay ahead of the curve.

Keywords Konektadong Pinoy bill, Open Access in Data Transmission Act, PCTO, Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators, telecommunications industry, cybersecurity, regulatory chaos.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.