Philippine telcos urge phased rollout of new internet law amidst energy emergency

The group seeks extended and spaced policy consultations for the implementing rules of the Konektadong Pinoy Act.

The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunication Operators (PCTO) has called on the government to extend and space out consultations for the implementing rules of the Konektadong Pinoy Act amidst the energy emergency. 

"Compressed timelines and simultaneous consultation processes place an undue burden on stakeholders whose operational capacities are presently strained," the PCTO said in a statement, following the announcement of the national energy emergency. 

"Adequate spacing of consultations will ensure that inputs are
substantive, well-considered, and genuinely reflective of the entire industry stakeholders' position."

The operators also requested that regulators give consideration to the compounding pressures, brought by the internal challenges of the ongoing crisis, when crafting and enforcing policy timelines. 

The PCTO also asked the government to utilise the one-year Spectrum Management and Policy Framework (SMPF) promulgation.  

"Rushing the SMPF process risks producing a framework that is inadequately aligned with technical realities, market conditions, and the long-term interests of both industry and the public."

PCTO also called for a moratorium on the release of circulars, directives, or policies affecting telecoms during the energy crisis, emphasising that sector stability is critical to maintaining essential connectivity for the public.