PRESS RELEASE
27 March 2025

Dialogue on Data Privacy and Competition Policy between PCC, NPC held

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) convened a strategic policy dialogue to discuss the intersection of data privacy and competition policy in promoting fair competition among social media and search platforms.

The discussion, held on 19 March at the PCC office, centered on the findings of a PCC market study that examined competition concerns arising from the market power of Big Tech companies, specifically Meta’s Facebook and Google, in the Philippine context. The study laid out fundamental concepts that are important in understanding markets where these firms operate. It also explored how digital platforms can use data collection, network effects, and economies of scale to strengthen their dominance, potentially limiting consumer choice and stifling competition as a result.

Key concerns identified include the lack of consumer choice in data collection, as major platforms impose privacy policies that leave consumers with little bargaining power over their personal data. The role of data portability (allowing users to transfer their data between platforms) and interoperability (the seamless exchange of data across systems) were also discussed in the context of promoting competition, along with the potential challenges posed by cross-border data flows.

Dir. Franklin Anthony M. Tabaquin IV of the NPC’s Privacy Policy Office shared insights on the progress and challenges of enforcing data privacy laws for dominant digital platforms. Best practices in managing data aggregation and supporting responsible cross-border data sharing were also exchanged by the PCC and NPC.

Both agencies welcome future collaboration on policy initiatives to harness synergies between competition and data privacy.

The dialogue is part of PCC’s broader initiative to engage with sector regulators in ensuring a competitive and consumer-friendly digital market. The PCC conducts strategic policy dialogues to assess the competitive implications of regulatory frameworks and propose recommendations that enhance market competition and economic efficiency.

###

REFERENCE:  
publicaffairs@phcc.gov.ph  
Public Affairs and Research Division
Communications and Knowledge Management Office
Philippine Competition Commission

LINK: https://www.phcc.gov.ph/resource-details/dialogue-on-data-privacy-and-competition-policy-between-pcc-npc-held