Senators on Monday said the newly enacted Konektadong Pinoy Act would help ease the struggles of Filipino families, students, overseas workers, and small businesses by ensuring cheaper, faster, and more reliable internet service nationwide.

Senate President Francis Escudero described the law, also known as the Open Access in Data Transmission Act, as a “giant step” toward bridging the digital divide in far-flung areas.

“The Philippines has one of the highest internet connectivity costs in the world, considering the speed it offers to consumers. It is about time that we empower Filipinos through greater access to information and connectivity,” Escudero said.

The law makes it easier for smaller players to enter the industry without the need for legislative franchises while allowing infrastructure sharing to hasten the rollout of internet services across the country.

Escudero said this would bring down prices and provide more choices for consumers.

Senator Imee Marcos, the principal author of the measure, said the new law would end the long-standing woes of slow and costly internet.

“Wala ng batang mahuhuli sa klase, wala ng OFW ang mapuputol ang tawag, at wala ng negosyong mapag-iiwanan dahil lang sa internet (No student will be left behind in class, no OFW call will be cut, and no business will be left behind just because of poor internet),” Marcos said.

She noted that the measure also provides special discounts for students and guarantees consumer rights protection, including the prompt resolution of service complaints.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who sponsored the law as chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, stressed the importance of aligning its implementation with other ICT policies such as the E-Governance Act and the digital highway masterplan.

“We welcome this law that modernizes our digital infrastructure, ensuring that all Filipinos have access to affordable, quality, and up-to-date information and communication technologies,” Cayetano said.

The Konektadong Pinoy Act lapsed into law on Aug. 23.

It mandates priority installation of infrastructure near schools, provides student discounts, and sets minimum service standards to improve internet connectivity nationwide. (PNA)