Telecommunications companies must repurpose their 2G and 3G frequencies to support the more efficient 4G and 5G technologies by 2028, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda said on Monday.
Speaking at the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) Infrastructure Forum, Aguda said the process—known as spectrum refarming—is critical to addressing persistent connectivity issues nationwide.
“3G is very inefficient. In most countries, it’s already phased out. That’s the first block we need to free up, followed by 2G,” Aguda said.
While the transition may entail additional costs for telcos, Aguda emphasized it should be viewed as a strategic investment.
Shifting away from outdated networks, he noted, allows for a more efficient use of limited bandwidth.
Currently, about 15 percent of the country’s spectrum allocation remains tied to 2G and 3G services.
These legacy networks serve primarily voice (2G) and limited data (3G) needs, with speeds of up to 9.6 kilobits per second (Kbps) and 2 megabits per second (Mbps), respectively—far behind the capabilities of modern broadband.
Aguda said refarming 3G frequencies should be easier, describing the network as a transitional layer
between analog and digital services. The more challenging phase will be the phaseout of 2G mobile phones still in use, particularly in rural areas.
DICT, in coordination with the National Telecommunications Commission, is also considering enforcing a “use it or lose it” rule for spectrum holders.
“If you’re not using the frequency, you should return it,” Aguda said.
The DICT chief also reported progress in the government’s connectivity initiatives.
As of June, 18,849 free Wi-Fi sites have been activated nationwide, including 6,183 in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).
This effort is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand digital access across underserved communities.
Additionally, 3,026 kilometers of the National Fiber Backbone have been completed, delivering high-speed, government-grade internet to 20 provinces and over 1,000 public agencies.
“DICT will focus on connecting all 10,875 underserved barangays by 2028, holding telcos accountable, and ensuring that every household benefits from stronger, cheaper, and more secure digital access,” Aguda said.
