Globe Telecom raises alarm over risks in newly enacted ‘Konektadong Pinoy Law’

By San Matildo

Globe Telecom has voiced serious concerns over the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which lapsed into law, saying that its current provisions may compromise cybersecurity, national security, and industry stability.

“By not signing it, Malacanang is taking a neutral stance on the Konektadong Pinoy Act. We shall work with the government on how we can make better the standards in the industry to safeguard the public,” said Globe General Counsel Atty. Froilan M. Castelo.

The law seeks to widen digital access across the country, but Globe cautioned that gaps in its framework pose “grave risks” to both consumers and the nation.

The company noted that telecommunications networks form the backbone of national security, yet the law leaves weaknesses in the vetting of new entrants. A two-year grace period for cybersecurity certification, Globe warned, could create a prolonged window for exploitation.

“This is at odds with the spirit of several existing laws including the Cybercrime Prevention Act, the Data Privacy Act, the Anti-Terrorism Act, and the Anti-OSAEC/CSAEM Law, all of which require immediate and effective protection of citizens and state systems,” Globe said in a statement.

Another point of concern Globe cited is the law’s provision allowing unregulated use of spectrum by satellite operators. According to Globe, this could interfere with frequencies used by the country’s defense and disaster-response agencies, especially during emergencies, and even risk putting the Philippines in violation of international treaty commitments.

The company also raised alarm over the removal of the Congressional franchise requirement for telecommunications players, saying this discards a long-standing safeguard of oversight.

Globe argued that existing operators, which have complied with strict requirements, should not face unfair competition from newcomers exempt from these obligations. Investor confidence, it added, could be undermined by such regulatory uncertainty.

Despite its reservations, Globe affirmed its commitment to work with government and stakeholders to strengthen the law and align it with national security and consumer protection goals.

“Connectivity is indeed a national imperative. To achieve it responsibly, the law must be fortified and not left to create vulnerabilities. With timely corrective action, the Konektadong Pinoy Act can still become a framework that expands access while preserving security, stability, and public trust.,” the company said.

On August 24, Malacañang confirmed that the Konektadong Pinoy bill has officially lapsed into law after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took no action within the 30-day period allotted for review.

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