Phl urged to improve broadband infra

 The Philippines will need to pursue and implement reforms aimed at encouraging competition and investments to improve its broadband infrastructure, according to a World Bank study.

- LOUELLA DESIDERIO

For the World Bank, the Open Access in Data Transmission (OADT) bill is a viable starting point for reforms.

"Binding constraints underlying the Philippines' poor broadband infrastructure are inter-related, requiring a comprehensive package of reforms to yield desired entry, investment, and sector performance outcomes," the WB said in a policy note.

The multilateral lender said the country is lagging behind its neighbors in Southeast Asia in terms of affordability, speed, and access to internet connectivity, creating an uneven landscape for digital participation.

It said the country's poor broadband infrastructure is a result of the outdated policy environment that has fostered weak competition and limited investments in connectivity infrastructure in rural areas.