00:00Sometimes a proposed piece of legislation is better left untouched or unsigned to pass legislative muster faster.
00:07Exactly how the proposed act and broader connectivity made its way to ratification
00:11that paves the way for a more informed citizenry, better e-commerce prospects, and more economically robust communities.
00:19Arrod Bagusad has more.
00:22The Connectedong Pinoy Bill has lapsed into law, according to Malacanang,
00:27which is aimed at expanding the internet coverage in the country and lowering its cost.
00:31It also aims to streamline the licensing process for internet service providers and encourage new players to enter the market.
00:38And if you ask Ronald, who frequently works from home, lower internet bills would make a big difference.
00:43Malaking tulong kapag bumaba yung bills sa internet.
00:47Kasi ngayon, currently yung binabayaran namin is nasa 2,000 plus na.
00:51So kung mas dadami yung player na magpaprovide ng internet, mas mababa yung consumption namin, yung babayarin.
01:00So malaking tulong siya sa amin.
01:01The new law will also help people like Nanay Shirley with their monthly bills.
01:06Mas maraming matutulungan kasi, di ba?
01:08Lalo na ngayon sa mga pressure ng mga wifi or mga internet data.
01:15So mas makakatulong kaya sa mas maraming.
01:17According to the Department of Information and Communications Technology,
01:21the law will ensure widespread, reliable, and affordable internet for every Filipino.
01:26According to Secretary Henry Aguda, this isn't about just building networks.
01:30It's about opening opportunities for Filipinos.
01:33He added that internet access serves as a foundation for quality education,
01:38growth in e-commerce industry, accessible government services, and stronger communities.
01:42The Secretary emphasized that the President said no Filipinos should be left behind in the digital age.
01:49According to Senate President Francis Escudero,
01:51he expects a faster rollout of the internet connectivity services nationwide,
01:55even in the most remote areas.
01:57Following this, Aguda said that together with the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development,
02:02stakeholders will immediately meet to formulate the Implementing Rules and Regulations, or IAR.
02:06Under the law, the IAR must be finalized within 90 days.
02:09However, before this, some groups have already expressed opposition to the bill,
02:14including the Fulpin Chamber of Telecommunications Operators, a group of telco players,
02:18which raised the removal of the legislative franchise requirement for new players.
02:23The Secretary earlier emphasized in an interview with Secretary Larry Gadon on PTB
02:27that the law does not compromise cybersecurity.
02:29According to Aguda, he has already spoken to telco companies.
02:59and after explaining the proposed measure, they now understand his position.
03:04He said he invited telco companies to participate in the upcoming consultations.
03:08In a statement, Converge ICT Solutions Incorporated CEO and co-founder Dennis Uy
03:12said they will work closely with the government to ensure the law's proper implementation.
03:17Rod Lugusad from the National TV Network for a new and better full piece.
