Manila, Feb. 5 -- The Senate of the Philippines approved on Wednesday a bill, certified urgent by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aimed at enhancing the country's digital infrastructure and expanding data transmission services, a move lawmakers say will promote competition and improve internet access nationwide.

Unanimously supported by senators, Senate Bill No. 2699 or the "Konektadong Pinoy Act" seeks to create a comprehensive and inclusive data transmission framework, focusing on expanding connectivity, ensuring fair competition, and modernizing the country's digital infrastructure.

It mandates the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to oversee policies that ensure fair competition, integrate data transm...