New internet players make move

The Philippine internet scene might be in for a shake-up. Following the enactment of the much-ballyhooed Konektadong Pinoy law, new players are reportedly eyeing entry into the local market—and an applicant has already filed a formal application.

No less than DICT Secretary Henry Aguda confirmed on Wednesday that at least one local digital transmission participant is already deep into the formal application process. According to Aguda, the processing of applications is expected to take up to two months.

Last year, several others had expressed interest, but the final implementing rules and regulations were still under review then.

While this could trigger fear among existing players, DICT’s approach remains consistent: before newcomers plant towers willy-nilly, they must coordinate with established operators like Globe, PLDT and Converge.

After all, partnerships can work — Starlink’s collaboration with Globe shows the potential. Other mobile operators seem to be taking a similar tack.

Competition, Aguda argued, should be about better service, lower prices, and consumer choice — not a “wild wild west” of towers sprouting everywhere with zero improvement in service quality.

Harmonization is key, and while there are interested parties, the department wants them to explore partnerships before going solo.

“Before you explore setting up here, talk to the existing telcos so you can explore a partnership first,” he said.

If the right balance between competition and coordination is struck, the country could see a healthier, faster, and more consumer-friendly internet ecosystem.

The DICT’s cautious approach reminds us that opening the door doesn’t mean letting everyone run wild — as the goal is better service for all.