Over 12k telco permits approved nationwide

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has approved the issuance of 12,241 permits and clearances for telecommunications infrastructure projects across 707 cities and municipalities as of September, accelerating efforts to expand internet access nationwide.

The department said more local government units (LGUs) are simplifying permit procedures to speed up the construction of telecommunications towers and other internet facilities, including in remote and underserved communities.

The initiative supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push for a more digitally connected Philippines, with Executive Order No. 32, series of 2023, serving as the policy framework for streamlining permits for telecommunications and internet infrastructure.

The order directs LGUs to implement a Zero Backlog Policy for applications involving network infrastructure, with compliance monitored through reports submitted to the Anti-Red Tape Authority.

However, 94 LGUs are still processing 2,046 applications, which must be acted upon within the time limits prescribed by law.

The DILG stressed that timely and transparent permit processing is crucial to preventing unnecessary delays in infrastructure development and improving access to internet services and online government transactions.

It also warned that officials responsible for red tape in the issuance of permits and clearances may face penalties under Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.

The department urged LGUs to sustain simplified permitting procedures to help telecommunications providers extend their services to more Filipinos, particularly those in hard-to-reach areas.