Telecom Firms Urge Marcos to Veto Konektadong Pinoy Bill Over Security Concerns

On June 17, 2025, a coalition of telecommunications companies in the Philippines called upon President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to veto the Konektadong Pinoy Bill, citing significant national security concerns. The bill, which seeks to enhance internet connectivity across the nation, has faced scrutiny from industry stakeholders who argue it could jeopardize the country's security framework.

The Konektadong Pinoy Bill, officially known as Senate Bill 2699, aims to facilitate affordable and accessible internet services by allowing various entities to establish cable landing stations and international gateway facilities without the necessity of a legislative franchise. This provision has raised alarms among industry players like the Philippine Association of Private Telecommunications Companies (PAPTELCO).

Lawyer Normandy Baldovino Jr., president of PAPTELCO, articulated the group's apprehensions, stating, "The current bill is flawed with national security issues as well as the lack of protection for small players like us that are already providing service to rural areas." He emphasized that while the bill has commendable goals, its implementation could mirror past governmental oversights, particularly referencing the challenges faced when Philippine Offshore Gaming Corporations (POGO) were legalized without adequate safeguards.

The pressing nature of the bill has led President Marcos to certify its passage as urgent. The Senate and House of Representatives ratified the proposed measure on April 9, 2025, reflecting a bipartisan effort to improve the nation’s digital infrastructure. The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has also endorsed the bill, suggesting that it would promote open access and transparency in data transmission, a critical step for the country’s economic growth.

However, the concerns raised by PAPTELCO and other industry stakeholders highlight potential vulnerabilities in the bill. "We can’t sacrifice the country’s national security. We have to correct the bill itself to ensure there is nothing lost when it comes to the implementing rules and regulations," Baldovino asserted.

The debate surrounding the Konektadong Pinoy Bill underscores a larger narrative about balancing national security with technological advancement. As the telecommunications sector continues to evolve, the implications of this legislation could have far-reaching effects on both consumer access to digital services and the overall security landscape in the Philippines.

In summary, while the Konektadong Pinoy Bill aims to enhance connectivity for Filipinos, the call for its veto by telecommunications firms underscores the critical need for a comprehensive review of its provisions to safeguard national interests. The resolution of these concerns will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of internet access in the Philippines, as well as the security of its telecommunications infrastructure.