Biz groups seek OK of open access bill

MANILA, Philippines — Foreign and Philippine business and civil society groups are pushing for the approval of the Open Access in Data Transmission Act to promote competition and level the playing field for telco and data services in the country.

 “We are calling on the Senate to approve Senate Bill 1763 or the Open Access in Data Transmission Act,” the groups said in a statement.

The statement was issued by the Joint Foreign Chambers composed of the American, Australian-New Zealand, Canadian, European, Japanese and South Korean chambers and the Philippine Association of Multinational Companies Regional Headquarters, and other groups such as the Animation Council of the Philippines, Coalitions for Change, Contact Center Association of the Philippines, Democracy.net.ph, Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Foundation for Economic Freedom, Federation of the International Cable TV and Telecommunications Association of the Philippines, Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines, Internet Society, Management Association of the Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc., and US-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Business Council Inc.

The Open Access in Data Transmission Act aims to have better access, more affordable, as well as quality data transmission services by promoting the sharing of infrastructure and resources among service providers.

When the bill is approved into law, it is expected to provide a regulatory framework for data services that is decentralized, distributed and redundant or aligned with how the internet works.

It will likewise clarify and strengthen the role of the National Telecommunications Commission in the broadband and digital age.

In addition, the bill will allow qualified service providers to roll out internet services in various parts of the country to promote regional and inclusive development.

“We believe that the Open Access in Data Transmission bill is a reform that will not only make the telecommunications and data services sector more dynamic, but will also improve the country’s competitiveness as it prepares for the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” the groups said.

In particular, the groups said more Filipinos would have access to valuable information and opportunities and more services can be delivered by government online.

More local businesses will also be connected to firms overseas.

“The Philippines can leapfrog and benefit from the digital revolution that is rapidly advancing around the globe,” the groups said.