DICT: Telco firms eye PHL entry

OVER a dozen new telecommunications firms are preparing to enter the Philippine market, Information and Communications Secretary Henry Rhoel R. Aguda said on Monday, as the government seeks to bridge the country’s digital gap through the Konektadong Pinoy Act.

He expects the number to rise once the implementing rules and regulations are published in the first week of October.

He added that discussions with telecom operators have focused on ensuring fair participation in drafting the rules and strengthening safeguards against online harms, including the spread of violence organized through social media.

“In Konektadong Pinoy, this also includes how we can create better governance around the internet so that we can minimize its ill effects, including the prescribing of violence online,” he said in Filipino during a Palace briefing.

“So, by the first week of October, things will proceed as planned, and the telcos are cooperating.”

Three major foreign companies have signaled interest in the Philippine telecom sector, alongside local governments and private firms, Mr. Aguda said, without naming them.

The initiative is part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s push to expand affordable internet access nationwide and close the country’s digital divide. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana