The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has pledged to maintain open dialogue with telecommunications operators to ensure the effective and fair implementation of the proposed Konektadong Pinoy Act, which seeks to improve internet access nationwide.

“Of course, we will listen to them, but there are things we agree on — we need to optimize spectrum, improve service, and increase connectivity. So we start from what we’ve agreed on. We will work on it,” DICT Secretary Henry R. Aguda told reporters on the sidelines of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines Infrastructure Forum on Monday.

The bill, a priority measure of the Marcos administration, is expected to be signed into law. A key provision of the measure is spectrum refarming, which involves phasing out 2G and 3G networks to free up capacity for faster and more efficient 4G and 5G services.

“The first frequency block we need to free up is 3G, then 2G. You might ask, why 3G first and not 2G? It’s because 2G is still used for voice and text. But 3G, being the crossover between voice, text, and data, is inefficient. That’s why 3G should go first,” Aguda explained.

Although 2G and 3G now account for less than 15 percent of total network use, reallocating their frequencies could significantly boost digital capacity.

“3G is very inefficient because it was the transition point from analog to data. In most countries, 3G is already gone — they’ve refarmed it,” he added.

Aguda also clarified that refarming does not mean that frequencies will be taken and reassigned arbitrarily.

“There are a lot of misconceptions. Some think the frequencies will automatically be reassigned to others. That’s not true. If you're using your frequency, you must prove it. If not, then return it. But if you’re using it and you have a franchise — it won’t just be taken away,” Aguda said.

He also stressed the importance of coordinated implementation.

“The concern is that if it’s not done in sync, one telco might shut down 2G in one area while another still has it running — that could create a competitive imbalance. So it has to be coordinated,” he added.

Earlier, the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) raised concerns over the proposed measure, warning that it could undermine fair competition and compromise national interests.

The group flagged the bill’s lack of provisions on cybersecurity, consumer protection, and franchise requirements for foreign-controlled entities operating critical infrastructure. It urged lawmakers to add stronger safeguards and tighter regulatory oversight.