The fight for your digital connection

PLDT vs. the Konektadong Pinoy Act: Whose Interest Really Comes First?

PLDT recently made headlines after announcing that it would sue if the Konektadong Pinoy Act becomes law. The company argues that the bill’s open-access provisions could threaten network security and create unfair competition.

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On paper, the Konektadong Pinoy Act seeks to liberalize the data transmission market to more operators, with the promise of providing cheaper, faster, and more accessible internet for every Filipino. For a nation that perennially finds itself among the list of countries with the slowest and most pricey internet in Southeast Asia, this sounds like a step in the right direction.

The Problem with PLDT's Stance

Rather than endorsing the bill's intentions to improve internet access and pricing, PLDT seems more interested in safeguarding its own market stronghold. For decades, the Philippine internet market has been dominated by a handful of large players, and the absence of real competition has maintained prices high while speeds fall far behind international standards.

With a proposal to open up the industry to greater competition now on the table, PLDT is resisting—naming threats that, as theoretical, are legitimate but could just as easily be addressed with proper safeguards. The timing and tenor of their resistance beg an important question: Do they care about national security, or do they fear losing domination of the market?

The Price of Monopoly to the Filipino People

Filipinos have long suffered:

• Sluggish internet speeds that impede productivity, learning, and entertainment.
• Exorbitant monthly charges relative to other regional countries.
• Insufficient selection when it comes to carriers.

These problems are not mere aggravations—each one directly affects the nation's economic development, competitiveness, and capacity to be a part of a digital society.

By maintaining the market closed to greater competition, dominant carriers such as PLDT have had little reason to focus on being competitive or reducing prices.

Why PLDT Must Be the Solution, Not the Problem

If PLDT really cares about its customers, it ought to be at the forefront of figuring out how to make open-access happen, not sending lawyers at the first hint of progress. This could involve:

• Working with policymakers to get security measures absolutely watertight.
• Working with new entrants to build out the infrastructure, not shutting them out.
• Competing on improved service and innovation, not market exclusivity.

After all, a safe, affordable, and speedy internet is in the best interest of the whole country—including PLDT subscribers.

The Bigger Picture

The Konektadong Pinoy Act is more than faster home Wi-Fi; it's about digital empowerment—empowering students, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and underserved communities to be full participants in the new economy.

If we continue to let monopolistic behavior call the shots on the future of our internet, we will keep lagging behind our Southeast Asian neighbors who have championed openness, competition, and innovation.

Bottom line: It's time to make connectivity for the people a priority over the interests of the few. The Konektadong Pinoy Act is given a fair shake—with out choking it with corporate fear of competition.

Ethical practices

Understanding and Managing Conflict of Interest: A Guide to Ethical Practices

Day in and day out, the word "conflict of interest" is heard, but little actual understanding exists. A conflict of interest may be described as any potential influence from third-party elements that could lead to biased judgment or behavior in any field or relationship. In this context, we are going to speak about what conflicts of interest are, why they matter, and finally, how to manage them effectively for the sake of integrity and trust.

A Conflict of Interest: What is it?

A conflict of interest occurs when an individual or organization has a set of competing interests where one interest may, in some way, benefit to the detriment of objective duty performance. Such a situation may translate into unfair judgment or the best interest of those involved, and instead means that personal gains or interests are prioritized.

For instance, an employee of a company assigned to choose a vendor could be in a conflict of interest if a close family member owns one of the vendors under consideration. Even though the vendor might meet all qualifications for the task, the relationship could compromise-or seem to compromise—the employee's ability to act impartially.

Why Conflicts of Interest Matter

Conflicts of interest can lead to a loss of trust, damage one's reputation, and even trigger legal issues if left unattended. Here is why it matters:

1. Keeps Trust and Integrity at the Core: An organization is effective when trust lies at the heart. Undeclared or badly managed conflicts of interest degrade an organization's standing and cost an organization credibility.
2. It also avoids ethical practice: Not disclosing potential conflicts of interest tends to encourage an environment in which unethical decision-making becomes routine behavior and, therefore, leads to a more concerning issue of corruption or fraud.
3. Ensures Fairness and Transparency: The process of conflict can ensure fair and transparent treatment of the stakeholders, in terms of equal value to all parties involved.

How to Identify a Conflict of Interest

To successfully manage a conflict of interest, you must find situations when potential conflicts might arise. Some common indicators would be:

• Financial Gain: If an individual is going to reap financial benefits from making a specific decision, there is probably a conflict of interest.
• Personal Relationships: If close friends or relatives are involved in business or are part of the decision-making process.
• Dual Roles: Two jobs that may impact each other's decisions or results.
• External Affiliations: Association with other companies with whom an individual's interests could be adversely affected.

Examples of General Conflicts of Interest

1. Employment: An HR director hiring a relative without reporting this to the hiring authority.
2. Investments: A broker making investment recommendations with which they have a financial interest.
3. Procurement: A purchaser identifying a vendor in which they have a financial interest.
4. Board Memberships: Sitting on the board of two companies that have conflict of interest with each other.

Steps to Manage and Mitigate Conflicts of Interest

1. Declare Conflicts Openly: The first and most important step towards managing conflicts is transparency. Declare all potential conflicts identified and deal with them as soon as possible. This often prevents the development of such conflicts into matters and maintains the trust with the stakeholders.
2. Set Clear Policies Organizations need to ensure that there are adequate conflict of interest policies indicating what a conflict of interest is, the process by which a declaration will be done, and the procedure followed in case such a situation arises. Such policies should be constantly taught to employees.
3. Recuse when necessary: If the direct conflict of interest is present then one should or is supposed to recuse from the decision-making process. For example, if a board member is having a discussion where one can clearly see that a personal interest is present, then that board member should step out of that discussion so that all things are fair.
4. Third-Party Reviews: In other instances, an organization may opt for employing an independent third party to carry out and review decisions such that no actual conflict of interest has crept in or otherwise influence outcomes.
5. Regular Audits: Regular audits will be held to identify and assess the possible undeclared actual conflicts of interest. Proactively reviewing this will assure one of preserving a culture of transparency and accountability.
6. Trainings and Education on Staff Conflict of interest should be defined for employees through educations of what it is, how they can identify one, and what to do if they encounter any.

Conflicts of Interests: Resolving Conflicts in Personal Life

Conflicts of interest do not end inside the workplace; they may also spring from personal relationships. For instance, preferential treatment to a friend in a community organization or volunteer project creates a perceived conflict of interest. Handling such situations with openness and honesty is important.

Clearly communicate: If a potential conflict occurs, be open with parties concerned.

Always make decisions based on ethics.

Seek counsel. If you are confused about any conflict, you may want to seek guidance from a friend or mentor you can trust.

Conflicts of interest are inevitable in life and business, but how they are managed will demonstrate the integrity and trustworthiness of the individuals and organizations involved. With a culture fostering transparency, policies that are clear-cut, and watchfulness as decisions are made with the best interest of all parties concerned, the option of compromise or avoidance through conflicts of interest exists.

Remember, of course, that the key in managing conflicts of interest is not to get rid of them altogether-that's often impossible-but to manage them openly and ethically so that they do not undermine trust or fairness.

Ten platforms to apply as a Virtual Assistant in the Philippines

Here are my top 10 platforms that I usually visit for job hunting.

If you don't like to be hired under an agency, finding direct clients requires a lot of patience. You must know what you don't know in order to get in to the virtual assistance industry. No one will spoon-feed you once you're in. Feel free to use the following platforms below:

Virtual Assistants in the Philippines

OnlineJobs.ph

OnlineJobs.ph is a platform designed by Filipino freelancers. It's actually a great website for VAs who want to work remotely, containing numerous job postings with various required skill sets. You can communicate with potential employers, have a complete profile, and send an application looking for work directly within the platform.

LinkedIn

That is where professional networking using LinkedIn comes in handy. As a virtual assistant, connecting to and sharing in the qualification with potential clients makes sense. Follow businesses, join groups, engage with influential people, and increase your visibility on LinkedIn.

Facebook

Virtual assistant jobs can be found within Facebook groups and sites. This is because businesses and entrepreneurs post their job openings directly within groups related to virtual assistance, freelance work, and specific industries. In joining relevant groups, you will immediately be introduced to many freelancers and potential clients, and keep up on job postings.

Upwork

Upwork is one of the biggest freelance job marketplaces out there, with various jobs available in its database. Plenty of entry-level positions exist, and the formation of a profile is quite easy. Upwork provides safe, easy ways of payments, thorough job listing, and the possibility of applying to positions that interest and suit you. While Upwork provides only 10 free connections every month, there are a number of ways to get more exposure for your profile and get clients excited enough to present you with offers.

Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com has an enormous community and a wide variety of job postings, like Upwork. It's also a very good platform for finding long-term and short-term projects. It features work in multiple categories, secured payment alternatives, and bidding on projects.

Fiverr

You can create "gigs" on Fiverr, outlining what services you offer. You might want to start with some easy, relatively small tasks and begin building your reputation. Fiverr lets you customize packages and prices, and the UI is really user-friendly. It is great for VAs looking to offer specialized services.

PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is the best for freelancers working on a fixed price or as an hourly worker. Excellent for newbies, as it really allows you to bid for more minor jobs.

Remote.co

Remote.co stands out as a perfect platform for virtual assistants, with a strict approach to remote work. You will get an idea of what is expected of you from the descriptions given in most job postings. This website has many resources for remote workers, and remotely held work opportunities differ by number.

Hubstaff Talent

Hubstaff Talent is a free resource for businesses looking for remote talent. It's really easy to use, with a great opportunity to connect with clients. No fees will have to be paid to develop the profile, list the qualification, and search for remote job opportunities.

Guru

Guru provides a safe payment system and an intuitive UI. It's a superb spot to search for contract jobs and long-term projects. You can develop your reputation by creating a full profile, providing an illustration of your work, and obtaining client feedback.

This is based on personal experience. If you have any suggestions for additions to these lists, please leave them in the comments below. Let's see each other succeed in this field together!

The bunos part

Users of this very popular online classifieds Web site can post and read ads seeking products, services, jobs, housing, or local events. Craigslist can be a helpful tool when seeking virtual support-type jobs. Following is an explanation of how one could use Craigslist as a virtual assistant job search tool.

Officially a freelancer

I was able to comple the training for General Virtual Assistant through Raqsstar Assistant Academy last April 9-10, 2022. Thos step will help me prepare for my future career as a freelancer, tp help business owners to manage their daily task through work at home setup. This is a great opportunity to earn more as a virtual assistant, from the comfort of my home.