Tech groups back Konektadong Pinoy Act, urge no data localization

Six technology industry groups have backed the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which aims to modernize internet connectivity in the Philippines.

The Global AI Council Philippines, Blockchain Council of the Philippines, Cybersecurity Council of the Philippines, Data Center Association of the Philippines, Fintech Philippines Association, and Go Digital Philippines issued a joint statement supporting the bill's goals of expanding internet access and improving digital services.

The tech organizations noted that by updating outdated regulations, the bill would encourage competition, streamline new player entry, enable infrastructure sharing, and improve spectrum management.

They emphasized the importance of the Act in empowering consumers through better service standards and strengthening small businesses' ability to participate meaningfully in the digital space.

However, the groups urged lawmakers to exclude data localization provisions, arguing that such requirements would increase business costs, disrupt operations, and limit access to technologies like cloud computing.

The tech industry leaders said they are ready to partner with the government in realizing the law's vision, which is now up for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s signature.