Manila: A group of lawmakers is advocating for a congressional investigation into the "expensive, slow and inaccessible" internet services in the country. Despite advancements in technology, the nation is still falling behind its neighboring Asian countries regarding cost-efficient, fast, and accessible internet services, as highlighted by Leyte Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.
According to Philippines News Agency, Romualdez expressed concern over the current state of internet connectivity, noting, "The necessary laws are in place, the newest of which is the Konektadong Pinoy Act. But something is not right. We need internet in many aspects of our life. Yet, half of Pinoys are not konektado (connected)." This statement underscores the urgency of addressing the issue as internet connectivity remains a vital component of daily life and economic growth.
Deputy Speakers David Suarez of Quezon and Jay Khonghun of Zambales have taken a proactive step by filing House Resolution No. 823. This resolution calls on the Committee on Information and Communications Technology to conduct an inquiry, in aid of legislation, into the reliability, quality, affordability, and consumer remedies related to internet and data transmission services in the country.
Romualdez emphasized the critical role of reliable and affordable internet services in fostering productivity-led growth and delivering essential public and private services, including education, healthcare, financial inclusion, disaster resilience, and commerce.
Suarez pointed out that a policy research by the House of Representatives revealed that only 48.8 percent of households had internet access at home in 2024, leaving more than half of the population "unconnected and/or underserved." Furthermore, affordability remains a significant barrier, with many offline households citing high subscription costs as the primary reason for lacking internet access.
Khonghun referenced data from the Department of Information and Technology indicating that as of March 2025, the Philippines ranked 53rd out of 154 countries in broadband speed. The Philippine Institute for Development Studies also reported that the Philippines had the highest monthly internet cost among the ASEAN-5 countries, standing at USD44.93 (approximately PHP2,678), and ranked 32nd globally in terms of cost.
The lawmakers highlighted the disproportionate impact inadequate connectivity has on students from low-income households, leading to barriers in learning, digital exclusion, and unequal educational outcomes.
