Advisory group warns vs reducing NTC mandate under proposed measure

MANILA, Philippines — A proposed technology-related bill in the Senate could pave way to risks as it is set to reduce the regulatory oversight of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), an advisory group said. 

Advisory and research firm Stratbase said that while lawmakers have noble intentions in mind with the Konektadong Pinoy Act, or Senate Bill 2699, "the bill in its current form may expose us to more pitfalls and risks."

SB 2699, if passed, will eliminate the need for a congressional franchise for telecommunication companies, which diminishes the regulatory powers of the NTC.  

According to Stratbase, Congress should take a second look at the bill, as future entrants in the telecommunications space in the Philippines might abuse the country's vulnerability due to the law for self-vested interests.

"We implore our lawmakers to take a second look at how, in our pursuit of connectivity, we may be opening ourselves up to abuses from entities that have malicious intent and whose goals may be different from what the law claims it wants," Stratbase said.

"The law seeks to make it easier for investments in telecommunications to pour into the country, and part of this is to address the roadblocks that hinder the flow of investments. But in our zeal to encourage investments, it would be prudent to maintain the regulatory oversight of the NTC. Only it will keep telcos in line and will serve as the people’s recourse," it added.

Proponents of the bill have pointed to the modernization of "outdated laws" to help improve the quality and scope of digital infrastructure in the Philippines.

The bill is currently lodged at the Senate and awaits further deliberations and actions.