MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) is now looking into the alleged attempts by developers of condominiums and subdivisions to limit the choices of residents to a single or an in-house internet service provider (ISP).
“The PCC understands the importance of having the power of choice for consumers and fair competition among operators in the market of ISPs, especially in light of online work, studies, and communication amid the pandemic,” it said in a statement Friday.
According to the PCC, it is “engaging with homeowners from various properties, including Cerritos Heights subdivision in Bacoor, Cavite over allegations of exclusive dealing of ISPs in their respective areas.”
Earlier, the Cerritos Heights Homeowners Association Inc. (CHHAI) appealed to concerned authorities, on behalf of residents, to allow other ISPs to set up a fiber internet in their subdivision.
It also previously asked the PCC to act on the alleged “monopoly” of an ISP in their subdivision.
The residents, according to CHHAI, issued the appeal after the subdivision developer’s security guards allegedly “shooed” personnel from another telecommunication company from setting up an internet connection in the area last Tuesday.
“We wish to assert our right to enjoy the benefits of competition, especially in getting the best possible internet provider. The need for reliable connectivity is even more pronounced today, especially as the uncertainty over the COVID-19 pandemic is forcing everyone to adapt to the new normal,” the residents said.
“This means work-from-home is no longer an option but a requirement in order to keep jobs. Students will also transition to online learning because this is now part of the Philippine education system,” they added.
The PCC advised other affected consumers to “share their own experience, additional information/photos, etc” to its email address at enforcement@phcc.gov.ph