The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses its full support for the filing of Senate Bill (SB) No. 2699, or “An Act Establishing a Comprehensive and Inclusive Data Transmission and Connectivity Framework for the Philippines,” as this seeks to address problems on the existing digital divide in the country through reliable, affordable, and accessible Internet connection on a nationwide scale.

Sponsored by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, SB 2699, also known as the Konektadong Pinoy Act, envisions to forward State initiatives for universal internet access in critical areas such as e-governance, basic services, education, health, trade, finance, disaster preparedness, and public safety. Moreover, the bill ensures access providers offer fair and non-discriminatory access to digital infrastructure and services.

The Commission expresses its support for the aforementioned bill by highlighting a human rights-based approach to digital transformation. There is an evident global recognition that information and communication technologies provide new opportunities for economic, political, and social growth. We hope that the Konektadong Pinoy Act, if passed into law, paves the way for the realisation of a society where innovation and human dignity can coexist in a digital world. Such can only be done if geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas will be given utmost attention in advancing every Filipino’s right to network accessibility.

The Commission echoes the sentiments of Sen. Cayetano, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, that this much-needed bill can be made possible through the active collaboration amongst all stakeholders, including advocacy groups and non-government organisations.

We note the efforts made by our legislators for their various initiatives to address the digital divide in the country.

The CHR, with its oversight role as the advisor of the Philippine government, will continue to advocate for the incorporation of human rights components as we protect, promote, and fulfil every Filipino’s right to Internet connectivity. We urge for the passage of SB 2699 to enhance digital connectivity in the country, including those in marginalised areas, as this can lead to rightful opportunities for a better quality of life. ###