SENATE Bill (SB) 2699, or the Konektadong Pinoy Act, is a bill intended to boost competition in the Philippine telecommunications industry by removing a significant barrier to new entrants in the form of the requirement for a legislative franchise. The consumer advocacy group CitizensWatch Philippines, however, has rejected the bill, arguing that it will lead to an erosion of regulation, lower quality internet services and work against the main objective of the proposed law, which is to expand connectivity to underserved areas.
Though we do not doubt the argument was offered with the best of intentions, it is nonetheless fallacious and shortsighted. SB 2699 can be the solution to inadequate internet connectivity that the country has been waiting for years, and while care should be taken in crafting its provisions, it should be passed without delay.
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