Wider digital divide gap seen under proposed measure

MANILA, Philippines – A proposed measure can increase the digital divide in the country due to supposed lack of provisions that would mandate new players in the telecommunications space in the country to invest in far-flung areas, a consumer network claimed.

In a statement on Facebook, CitizenWatch Philippines said that Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) should be given priority, which it claims the Konektadong Pinoy Bill fails to address.

"Rural and remote communities could be left further behind as new players focus on more profitable urban markets, where returns on investment are quicker and more substantial," CitizenWatch convenor Orlando Oxales said.

Relaxing restrictions could also be economically detrimental to the country's telco industry, as new entrants might force all players to implement competitive pricing and focus their resources more on urban areas.

"New entrants might resort to aggressive pricing strategies to gain market share, which could force all players to cut costs and reduce investments in critical infrastructure, thus leading to slower expansion, especially in GIDAs areas where broadband services are most needed," Oxales added.

The latest data from the DataReportal-Global Digital Insights showed that only 73.6% of Filipinos are connected to the internet across the Philippines.

According to the Statista Research Department, an international research company, only by 2028 will 98% of the Filipino population have access to an internet connection in its current phase.

The average broadband internet speed in the Philippines is currently ranked 41st in the world, according to the Telecom Review. Prof. Dindo Manhit, president of the international research tank Stratbase, said this is "a serious obstacle that must be hurdled," emphasizing the need of internet connectivity for inclusion and social progress.

The World Bank said that policymakers in the Philippines should focus on reforms and invest more budget to improve the Philippines' broadband infrastructure, as the limited internet connection affects many people and future opportunities.