At least 20 new internet players have expressed interest to offer their services in the Philippines once the connectivity bill – Konektadong Bill – becomes a law, said Information and Communications Technology Secretary John Roel Aguda said.
Aguda told reporters at the recent Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) General Membership Meeting that his office has been approached by 2 dozens or least 20 new internet players, which are interested to provide their services in the country, in anticipation of the liberalization of the telco sector.
He refused to identify the interested parties, but said these are mostly American companies.
Konektadong Pinoy has been submitted to Malacanang for approval. If President Marcos Jr. will not sign the bill, which has met strong opposition by the country’s two telco monopolies PLDT and Globe, it will lapse into law on August 24, 2025.
At the same event, Aguda also asked the Federation of International Cable TV to be part in the crafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Konektadong Pinoy. The cable TV group complained during the open forum session that they were not part of the consultation in the crafting of the bill.
They also expressed strong opposition if new players will no longer be required to obtain a legislative franchise if they enter the market the market under the new law.
