Nationwide telephone density increased from 1.4 per 100 in 1993 to 10 by the end of 1999. In Manila, there are almost 20 phones per 100 people. PDLT still remains the nation's principal domestic and international fixed line provider and continues to operate the most extensive nationwide domestic fiber optic network and microwave long distance network. The cellular telephone system showed the greatest growth over the past three years. Cellular subscribers more than tripled from 500,000 in 1995 to 1.8 million by the end of 1999.
Cable TV is also one of the fastest growing industries in the Philippines.
By the end of 1999, there were approximately 1 million cable TV subscribers with an annual growth rate of 20 percent. Although the IT equipment and investment markets are relatively open, there are still some concerns that persist with regard to the telecommunications market. Despite the numerous deregulation measures, the lack of competition has prevented the improvement of telecommunications infrastructure quality. Interconnection issues between PLDT and smaller regional networks continue to present problems, and the National Telecommunications Commission has shown itself to be unwilling or unable to enforce existing regulations that require reasonable interconnection terms. The Philippine Constitution limits foreign investment in telecommunications networks to 40 percent of equity and bans foreign investment in cable television networks.