The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Konektadong Pinoy Act has been signed, marking the final step in its legislative journey.
The signing was led by DICT secretary Henry R. Aguda, together with key government officials, including Socioeconomic Planning secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, Public Works secretary Vivencio B. Dizon, Interior secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla, acting Transportation secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez, National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) commissioner Ella Blanca B. Lopez, and Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) chairperson Michael G. Aguinaldo.
Under the newly approved IRR, the entry of new Internet service providers is expected to be simplified, competition in the telecommunications industry strengthened, and the process of securing permits and registrations streamlined to lower connectivity costs.
The IRR also mandates the implementation of the “Dig Once Policy,” which ensures that fiber-optic cables are installed simultaneously with public infrastructure projects to save time and reduce expenses.
“This is not just a government initiative — it is a commitment of the Bagong Pilipinas that no Filipino will be left offline,” said Aguda.
Aguda also announced that, with assistance from the Australian Government under the Partnerships for Infrastructure (P4I) program, the DICT has completed national fiber mapping across the country.
The project, done in collaboration with the private sector, is expected to accelerate fiber deployment and reduce the cost of Internet connectivity.
With the IRR now in effect, the DICT said it is ready to begin the nationwide “fiberization” program aimed at fulfilling the government’s goal of providing every Filipino household with fast, reliable, and affordable Internet access by 2028.
“No Filipino will be left offline,” Aguda reiterated. “Through collective effort, we are building a just, connected, and future-ready Philippines.”
The IRR shall take effect after 15 days following its publication in the Official Gazette or in newspaper of general circulation and upon filing of three certified true copies with the Office of the National Administrative Register at the UP Law Center.
