On September 22, 2022, Cong. Kiko Benitez filed House Bill No. 5085 or the “Open Access in Data Transmission Act” which seeks to open the playing field for Internet service providers and build an enabling regulatory framework for free and fair competition in the telecom industry.

This bill when enacted into law shall remove the requirement for a legislative franchise and a certificate of public convenience and necessity from the National Telecommunications Commission for an Internet Service Provider (ISP) to build and operate a network. The bill also mandates interconnection and greater transparency in rates and spectrum assignment.

And if finally enacted into law, this will lower the cost of operating an Internet service network, and enable smaller ISPs to compete with large telecom companies. With more market players providing Internet connections at varying qualities and prices, consumers have more options that satisfy the different needs of an increasingly digital world.

Padayon ang Asenso!