MANILA -The country’s largest business organizations and IT advocacy groups are calling for the immediate enactment of the proposed Open Access in Internet Services Act, which will lower entry barriers and boost broadband access in the country.
The joint statement was signed by representatives of Democracy.net.ph, Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Fintech Alliance.Ph, Foundation for Media Alternatives, Internet Society-Philippines Chapter and National ICT Confederation of the Philippines.
They were also joined by Philippine Cable and Telecommunications Association Inc., Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc.
“Through this joint statement of support, we are optimistic that the Senate will fast-track the approval of this bill, and that the President will sign this landmark legislation into law,” the groups said.
Group backs Open Access bill: Time to liberalize ICT industry
They called attention to major challenges in internet access, quality and affordability despite the heavy buildup of infrastructure by the country’s largest telecommunications and internet providers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Despite some improvement over the past two years, the country continues to suffer from a broadband infrastructure gap, which is worse in the rural areas. Legal obstacles brought about by outdated laws restrict the building and operation of broadband networks,” the joint statement showed.
“These obstacles are manifested in high barriers to entry and a costly and inefficient way of installing broadband infrastructure,” it added.
Benefits to users
The group underscored benefits such as increased competition that would be made possible by the lowering of entry barriers and costs with simplified registration and qualification processes for providers.
The law will also hasten the deployment of infrastructure with more streamlined permitting processes.
Senate urged to pass bill boosting internet competition
Last December, the House of Representatives approved, on third reading, House Bill No. 6 or the Open Access in Data Transmission Act. Last May, the Senate committee on science and technology has initiated public hearings on key digital connectivity and cybersecurity bills, including the proposed Open Access law.
-CSN
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