Senator Imee R. Marcos cautioned the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) against issuing its proposed draft circular, warning that the measure could undermine the intent of the newly enacted Konektadong Pinoy Act.

As the principal author of the law, Marcos said the draft rules appear to run counter to the statute’s core objective of expanding reliable and affordable internet connectivity across the country.

Instead of lowering barriers to entry and fostering competition, she noted that the proposed regulations seem to revive restrictive practices that the law was designed to dismantle.

Marcos flagged provisions imposing high capital and bond requirements, particularly for small and community-based internet service providers, saying these could stifle competition and favor large telecommunications companies.

She also raised concerns over clauses granting the NTC broad discretionary authority to disqualify applicants without clearly defined standards.

The senator further criticized the draft rule prohibiting online filing and requiring paper submissions, calling it inconsistent with the government’s digitalization agenda as well as existing Supreme Court directives encouraging electronic transactions.

Marcos urged the NTC to ensure that its implementing rules strictly adhere to the Konektadong Pinoy Act, promote transparency in spectrum allocation, and establish a regulatory framework that is fair, efficient, and supportive of wider connectivity.

“The law is clear,” Marcos said. “Connectivity should expand, competition should flourish, and regulation should serve the public.”