President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday highlighted key reforms and infrastructure gains in the telecommunications sector, saying expanded connectivity is central to improving access to education, government services, and economic opportunities nationwide.
Speaking at the Philippine Telecommunications Summit 2026 in Pasay, the President said his administration remains committed to ensuring that every Filipino has access to reliable and affordable digital connectivity, which he described as “a right, a necessity, and a lifeline.”
He noted that the telecommunications sector was valued at more than $6 billion last year, reflecting sustained investment and regulatory reforms.
“More importantly than that figure is what it represents: years of investment, progressive reform, and a clear belief that digital access can uplift lives,” Mr. Marcos said.
He cited the rollout of 5G networks, expanded fiber-optic infrastructure, and the growth of mobile broadband, noting that by the third quarter of 2025, providers had deployed more than 1.8 million cable kilometers nationwide.
“These gains mean faster access to education, to health services, government programs, and to livelihoods,” Marcos said.
He acknowledged that while internet speeds have improved, many rural and remote areas still face unreliable service due to permit delays, right-of-way issues, fiber cuts, and power interruptions.
To address these gaps, the Chief Executive pointed to the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which removed the requirement for a congressional franchise to operate data transmission networks and mandated infrastructure sharing among providers to lower costs.
He also cited the completion of the first three phases of the National Fiber Backbone Project, which connected about 690 government agencies and benefited nearly 17 million users, as well as the Free Public Internet Access Program, now operating more than 9,500 free Wi-Fi sites nationwide.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Marcos highlights telecom reforms, connectivity gains at industry summit”
