The 2025 GSMA Mobile Connectivity Index (MCI) Report, which placed the Philippines with a slightly lower score of 67.69 compared to 68.31 the previous year, is a “timely reminder of the work that remains in achieving universal, reliable, and affordable digital access for all Filipinos,” according to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)
“We see this report not as a setback, but as a guide that reinforces our focus on closing the digital divide, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to have an inclusive and digitally connected Philippines,” the DICT said in a statement.
One of the solutions to closing the digital divide, it said, is for Congress to pass the “Konektadong Pinoy Act,” which seeks to promote and streamline the rollout of broadband services in the country.
“By lowering operational barriers and fostering competition, the measure is expected to reduce internet costs by 2028, while accelerating the deployment of high-quality connectivity across urban and rural areas alike,” the DICT said.
In particular, it said the legislation seeks to promote open-access policies, infrastructure sharing among telecommunications providers, and streamlining of permitting processes for broadband rollout.
In addition, the DICT will further expand the ‘Free WIFI for All Program’ that provides free WIFI to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). “This is complemented by our ongoing digital literacy and capacity-building initiatives that empower Filipinos to make full use of connectivity once it becomes available,” it added.
The GSMA MCI Report’s Index Score of 67.7 was based on four categories — infrastructure, affordability, consumer readiness, and content and services.
The Philippines received high scores of 80.2 and 82.7 for infrastructure and consumer readiness, respectively, but received low scores of 48.5 for affordability and 65.3 for content and services.
“[These are] areas we are directly addressing through our legislative, operational, and community-driven programs,” the DICT said.
“The DICT remains committed to making connectivity more affordable, reliable, and accessible for all Filipinos, especially the underserved. DICT will continue to push for stronger digital foundations to ensure no one is left offline.” (PNA)