DICT defends KPB, stresses regulatory safeguards

On Tuesday, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) defended the Konektadong Pinoy Bill (KPB), which aims to improve internet service delivery in the Philippines.

The DICT addressed concerns raised by cybersecurity groups about potential regulatory risks, emphasizing that deregulation will not compromise security or public interest as the bill awaits the President's signature.

New entrants will be required to comply with baseline cybersecurity controls before operations begin and undergo security reviews under the supervision of the DICT and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center.

The bill aims to modernize Philippine digital infrastructure by streamlining licensing processes, promoting infrastructure sharing, and allowing new players to invest in data transmission without requiring a legislative franchise.

Foreign-controlled entities will not gain access to critical digital infrastructure without undergoing multi-layered vetting and continuous monitoring as the DICT prepares complementary Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) that explicitly reinforce the National Telecommunications Commission's role.

The DICT remains open to dialogue with concerned groups, inviting them to submit position papers and participate in technical working groups as implementing rules are finalized.