Today marks a significant milestone in the history of the Philippines — the 30th anniversary of the Internet in our beloved nation. Three decades ago, the Philippines took its first steps into the boundless realm of cyberspace, embarking on a journey that would revolutionize communication, commerce, and connectivity for generations to come.
As members of the Mozilla Philippines Community (MozillaPH), we celebrate this momentous occasion with pride and reflection. Over the past three decades, the Internet has woven itself into the fabric of Filipino society, enriching lives, expanding opportunities, and fostering innovation. From the bustling streets of Manila to the far-flung islands of Mindanao, the Internet has transcended geographical barriers, connecting Filipinos from all walks of life and empowering them to shape their own destinies.
At the heart of this transformation lies a fundamental principle: the Internet must remain free and open for all. Throughout its history, the Internet has thrived as a decentralized platform where ideas flow freely, knowledge is accessible, and voices are heard. It has empowered individuals to express themselves, organize for social change, and participate in the global community. As we celebrate this milestone, we must reaffirm our commitment to preserving these core values.
In today’s interconnected world, access to the Internet is not just a privilege — it is a basic human right. It is a tool for education, a gateway to opportunity, and a catalyst for progress. Yet, despite the remarkable strides we have made, millions of Filipinos still lack access to this essential resource. As we look to the future, we must redouble our efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure that every Filipino can harness the full potential of the Internet.
As advocates for a healthy Internet ecosystem, we call upon policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society to work together in safeguarding the principles of net neutrality, privacy, and digital inclusion. We must resist efforts to censor, surveil, or manipulate the Internet for political or commercial gain. Instead, we must strive to create an Internet that is open, secure, and accessible to all.
On this historic occasion, let us celebrate the transformative power of the Internet and reaffirm our commitment to building a brighter, more inclusive future for all Filipinos. Together, let us continue to champion the principles of freedom, openness, and equality that have defined the Internet for the past three decades and will guide us in the decades to come.
Mabuhay! Happy 30th anniversary of the Internet in the Philippines!
