Leading telecommunications provider PLDT Inc. has raised a significant alarm regarding the proposed implementation of the Konektadong Pinoy Bill, stating it could severely deter future infrastructure spending and compromise service quality for Filipinos.
Concerns Over 'Free Riders' and Service Quality
The issue was brought to the forefront on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, by PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. While he acknowledged the bill's noble goal of providing cheaper internet and enhancing connectivity in rural areas, he argued that the current approach might backfire.
Pangilinan expressed that the core problem lies in the potential for new market entrants to gain access to existing networks without the obligation to build their own. "If they simply use our infrastructure, which some claim is already inadequate, how does that improve service?" he questioned, highlighting a critical flaw in the logic.
He described such potential players as "free riders" who would benefit from the substantial investments made by established operators like PLDT without contributing to the further development of the nation's digital backbone.
A Contrast with Past Liberalization
Pangilinan drew a sharp contrast with the successful telecom liberalization of the 1990s. He pointed out that during that era, new players were required to make concrete investment commitments, which fueled network expansion and competition.
"We can sell wholesale capacity voluntarily, but most of our network is built for our subscribers," he added, emphasizing that their primary infrastructure is designed to serve their own customer base.
The central worry for PLDT is that the proposed regulatory framework could disincentivize further capital expenditure. "Our concern is this could hurt service quality and disincentivize further investment," Pangilinan stated, indicating a potential negative cycle where network quality stagnates or even declines.
Call for a Balanced Regulatory Environment
Despite these strong concerns, the PLDT chairman made it clear that the company is not opposed to collaboration. He affirmed that PLDT remains open to working with other entities to improve the country's internet landscape.
However, he stressed the need for a regulatory environment that "balances access with accountability." This statement underscores PLDT's position that any policy promoting open access must also ensure that all participants share the responsibility and cost of building and maintaining critical telecommunications infrastructure for the long-term benefit of all Filipino consumers.
