Leading business organizations, industry leaders, and government bodies in the Philippines are rallying behind Senator Alan Peter Cayetano’s push to fast-track the “Konektadong Pinoy Act.”
Key organizations such as the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT), the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), and others, are backing the measure (Senate Bill 2699) as a step toward improving the country’s internet services and boosting economic growth.
In a Facebook post on August 16, 2024, PHILEXPORT President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said once passed into law, Konektadong Pinoy “will provide a reliable and secure internet that will help exporters access modern technologies and participate in international trade.”
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has also voiced strong support and emphasized the importance of a human rights-based approach to digital transformation. The constitutional office noted that information and communication technologies (ICTs) are crucial for promoting political and social development worldwide.
Cayetano, who chairs the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, sponsored the bill on August 5, 2024. He has urged fellow legislators to prioritize the measure, emphasizing that the country cannot afford to lag behind in internet accessibility.
“Once magawa natin ito, we will really see the difference of having reliable and affordable connections in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” he said.
“Sa lahat ng nag-contribute sa bill na ito, sa lahat ng authors, all the NGOs, all the advocacy groups, I look forward to discussing this bill. Hopefully, itong August matapos natin,” he added.
The “Konektadong Pinoy Act” was designated a priority during the 5th Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting on June 25, 2024. Senate President Chiz Escudero also highlighted it as one of six key bills for passage, emphasizing its significance for national development.
The bill aims to modernize outdated laws that hinder internet connectivity in the Philippines, making the internet more affordable, faster, and accessible.
Cayetano has linked the bill to the country’s push for effective e-governance and stated that improved internet connectivity is essential for streamlining government services and reducing corruption.
“The use of present technology affords the government the opportunity to bring itself and its services closer to the people,” he said.
“We therefore must modernize our digital infrastructure to ensure that all Filipinos have access to, and the use of, affordable, quality, and up-to-date information and communication technologies,” he added.