As the Philippines pushes for digital transformation, the government must prioritize both widespread access and robust national security, a policy think tank disclosed.

Advocacy group Stratbase Group stressed the need for urgency in building a digitally inclusive nation, but also urged caution to protect infrastructure integrity and sovereignty.

"The accessibility and affordability of digital services must be a priority — but not at the cost of safety or sovereignty," Stratbase said in a statement.

With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines faces the unique challenge of providing uniform digital connectivity across its diverse geography. Stratbase underscored that digital inclusion means offering equal opportunities to students and citizens in Mindanao as those in Metro Manila, both in terms of access to knowledge and economic participation.

"A citizen in the South deserves the same opportunities as those in the capital," the group said, adding that "one cannot fully participate in today’s digital economy offline."

While acknowledging that faster and more reliable internet service is essential for technology-driven growth, Stratbase cautioned against allowing any internet service provider to operate indiscriminately within the country, particularly those with "questionable backgrounds or foreign state ties."

"The consequences will be dire and disruptive," the Stratbase statement warned.

The group also highlighted the substantial investments made by local telecommunications companies that have long worked to expand the country’s digital backbone.

"These firms, with years of industry experience, have pledged to continue partnering with the government to support inclusive growth and digital innovation," Stratbase stressed. "Existing telcos know the terrain. They’ve built the infrastructure, navigated the market, and shown their commitment to the Filipino people."

As the government continues to open avenues for connectivity, Stratbase called on lawmakers and regulators to maintain a stringent legal framework. This framework, the group argued, should filter players not only based on their capacity but also on their credibility.

"It is imperative that we entrust our data and digital future only to entities that are capable, credible, and committed to the country’s welfare," Stratbase urged.

The group’s advocacy stresses responsible digital progress, ensuring that equal access does not come with unequal risk to national security.