Philippines: Published PCC findings following market study into potential competition concerns and regulatory solutions in digital advertising

On 7 October 2024, the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) published a market study regarding potential competition concerns and regulatory solutions in digital markets. The market study focused on online advertising providers, e-commerce platforms, and platforms for user-generated content and aimed to identify and address emerging competition concerns within the Philippine digital economy, particularly the challenges posed by large technology companies operating in the country. It emphasises the challenges posed by digital platforms, such as social media and online marketplaces, which create barriers to entry for new competitors by leveraging large user bases and offering premium services. To address these concerns, the PCC recommends first building partnerships with jurisdictions that have a developed framework regulating digital markets. Secondly, enacting a new law to regulate the digital economy, and thirdly strengthening the enforcement of the Competition Act through new guidelines for digital market investigations.