By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Major telecommunications providers have set aside industry competition to strengthen cooperation against illegal network operations and the growing problem of infrastructure theft, warning that such activities threaten the country’s digital connectivity and economic development.
Converge ICT Solutions Inc. Chief Executive Officer and co-founder Dennis Anthony Uy disclosed that executives from leading telecommunications companies recently met to discuss coordinated measures aimed at safeguarding critical communications infrastructure across the country.
According to Uy, the discussions focused on building stronger collaboration between government agencies and the private sector to suppress unauthorized internet operations and prevent criminal activities that damage legitimate telecommunications facilities.
He stressed that illegal internet distribution and the theft of telecommunications equipment inflict significant financial losses on companies that continue to invest heavily in expanding broadband services nationwide.
Uy also urged authorities to classify cable theft and unauthorized network operations as forms of economic sabotage, emphasizing that those responsible for disrupting essential communication services should face the full force of the law.
“Critical telecommunications infrastructure is vital to millions of Filipinos who rely on stable internet access for work, education, business, and daily communication,” Uy said, stressing the need for tougher enforcement against offenders.
Converge currently provides internet services to more than 3.09 million subscribers nationwide, making the protection of its network a key priority amid increasing cases of infrastructure-related crimes.
The industry likewise called on the government to work closely with telecommunications providers in implementing the recently enacted Konektadong Pinoy Act (Republic Act No. 12234), a measure designed to encourage greater competition and accelerate the expansion of internet services throughout the country.
Among its major reforms, the law eases regulatory requirements for new telecommunications providers by removing the long-standing legislative franchise requirement, a move expected to attract more investment and improve connectivity for Filipino consumers.
Industry leaders expressed hope that stronger enforcement against illegal network activities, coupled with the proper implementation of the new law, will help create a more secure, competitive, and reliable telecommunications sector.
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