Philippines: Open Access in Data Transmission Act, including business registration requirement was introduced to House of Representatives

On 30 June 2022, the Open Access in Data Transmission Act was introduced to the House of Representatives. The Act requires all segments of the data transmission network to be competitive and open, and all industry participants must register with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). The NTC, in coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), shall develop criteria for qualifying participants to encourage broad participation. Operators of international cable landing stations must secure a legislative franchise, and operators of nationwide backbone networks must obtain a permit from the NTC and submit proposed routes and construction plans. All other participants are not required to secure a legislative franchise or certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) but must meet registration criteria. Registered participants must comply with national and international cybersecurity standards, undergo network audits, and obtain third-party cybersecurity certification after three years of operation.