Last August 24, the Konektadong Pinoy Bill which aims to rationalize the nation’s telco sector, lapsed into law. The principal author is Senator Imee Marcos.
Although not signed by the President, the measure became a law because under the Constitution, the President has 30 days to sign into law or veto a bill sent to his office.
A few weeks before the bill lapsed into law, Senator Marcos urged her brother the President to sign it into law and for once side with the masses who have been demanding for an efficient and affordable internet service across the nation—against the interests of the oligarchy.
Imee cited that the Konektadong Pinoy Act seeks to end the outdated Congressional franchise requirement for data transmission providers. It would break the decades-long duopoly and open the door to more affordable, faster, and reliable internet service, especially in far-flung communities.
Now that the bill has become a law, it would seem that Bongbong Marcos listened to the wise advice of his elder sister—all for the benefit of Filipino students, overseas contract workers, employees and professionals.
Only Globe Telecom, Smart Communications and similar companies are unhappy.
“By not signing it, Malacañang is taking a neutral stance on the Konektadong Pinoy Act. We shall work with the government on how we can make better the standards in the industry to safeguard the public,” said Globe General Counsel Froilan M. Castelo.
Whatever they say, Globe, Smart, Converge and other telcos will have to follow this new act, to be known as Imee’s Internet Act.
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Thanks to Dr. Leo Lagade of Tarlac Medical Center
The family of Mr. Rolando D. Ilagan, 68-year-old patient battling decompensated liver cirrhosis, acute kidney injury and cancer, has expressed heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Leo Alejandro Arrojo Lagade, gastroenterologist at Tarlac Medical Center, for his unwavering dedication and compassion throughout their father’s ongoing treatment.
For several months, Dr. Lagade has gone beyond the call of duty to ease the pain and support the recovery of the patient. Among his many acts of service: he has personally visited the patient at home in Tarlac City, offered his presence during a crucial surgery, recommended the competent nurse named Jesus David who looks after Mr. Ilagan, and consistently cared for the patient with the warmth and attention one would expect from a family member.
“Our father’s journey has been difficult, but the compassion of Dr. Lagade and his team of doctors have given us hope and comfort,” the family shared. “He treats our father not just as a patient, but as someone they truly care for—and that has made all the difference.”
The Ilagan family hopes that sharing their gratitude will highlight the importance of compassionate healthcare and inspire others in the medical profession to continue treating patients with dignity, empathy, and genuine concern.
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