Quezon City, November 12, 2025 — The Philippine authority has outlined its evolving approach to regulating competition in digital markets, sharing recent initiatives and policy advances during the 11th Antitrust in Asia Conference held in Hong Kong on October 21.
Speaking at a panel on digital regulation, Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) Chairperson Michael Aguinaldo described how the authority is adapting its enforcement and policy tools to address challenges posed by online platforms, data-driven business models, and emerging market structures.
He cited the 2023 Guidelines for the Motu Proprio Review of Mergers and Acquisitions in Digital Markets, which identify risk indicators such as gatekeeping conduct, network effects, and data-centric operations. The guidelines aim to provide regulatory clarity for companies active in digital markets.
Aguinaldo also referenced the PCC’s 2024 market study on digital platforms and online advertising, which recommended a dedicated framework for platform oversight and stronger cooperation with regional regulators. He further noted the Commission’s role under the Konektadong Pinoy Act, enacted in August 2025, which promotes open access in data transmission and authorises the PCC to issue competition guidelines and oversee spectrum allocation to prevent market concentration.
“The PCC’s work in digitalization has evolved alongside rapid technological change,” Aguinaldo said. “Through guidelines, merger reviews, market studies, and legislative support, our consistent focus has been on protecting consumer welfare.”
The dialogue brought together authorities, policymakers, and experts from across the Asia-Pacific to discuss context-sensitive regulation and cooperation in digital markets.
