THE Joint Foreign Chambers (JFC) called on the Senate to make progress on the Open Access in Data Transmission Act, or Konektadong Pinoy Act, after no action was taken since Senator Alan Peter S. Cayetano’s sponsorship speech on Aug. 5.
“The foreign chambers look forward to the enactment of Konektadong Pinoy, given the support of the executive, with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) as the main champion,” the JFC said in a statement on Thursday.
“This bill is crucial to achieving the President’s call for digitalization. It will simplify the licensing of broadband network operators, which will support ease of entry and ease of doing business and attract foreign investors,” he added.
The House of Representatives passed a version of the measure on third reading in December 2022.
“To date, the two chambers are aligned, with Senate President Francis G. Escudero giving priority to Konektadong Pinoy,” the JFC said.
Currently set for floor debate, Senate Bill No. 2699 aims to attract network operators, which will promote the resilience and security of the internet in the Philippines.
“The Konektadong Pinoy bill seeks to empower internet service providers in bringing accessible, reliable, and affordable internet to communities,” the JFC said.
The bill seeks to simplify the approval process for network operators, promote efficient management of the radio spectrum, and promote the sharing of infrastructure.
It is among the bills prioritized for passage within the 19th Congress by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport), and the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) have also expressed support for the bill after the sponsorship speeches in the Senate.
PCCI President Enunina V. Mangio said that the bill will benefit micro, small and medium enterprises, which make up 99.5% of the businesses in the country.
“Bringing them online is crucial to make them competitive. With the Konektadong Pinoy Act, small entrepreneurs even in rural areas can participate in e-commerce and use e-payments,” she said.
ECOP Chairman Edgardo G. Lacson said such a measure will help businesses increase their productivity by enabling the use of new technology.
“Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) requires robust connectivity. With Konektadong Pinoy, businesses of all sizes can leverage AI and other digital technologies to increase productivity and develop a globally competitive workforce,” Mr. Lacson said.
“Filipino businesses are ready for the global market. Once passed into law, Konektadong Pinoy will bring a reliable and secure internet that will help exporters access modern technologies and participate in international trade,” Philexport President Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr. said. — Justine Irish D. Tabile