MANILA, Aug. 24 -- The "Konektadong Pinoy" bill has lapsed into law, ushering in a major policy reform intended to expand internet access and boost competition among service providers nationwide.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro issued the announcement through a text message to reporters on Sunday.

The new law, which was not signed but allowed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to lapse into law, seeks to streamline licensing procedures, promote infrastructure sharing, and allow new players to invest in broadband and data transmission facilities without the need for a congressional franchise -- a requirement critics have long described as "outdated" and unique to the Philippines.

The measure is expected to accelerate the rollout of...