Bicam on Bayanihan 2 paves way for faster construction of telco towers

MANILA, Philippines — The bicameral conference has adopted the proposal to suspend the issuance of certain permits and requirements needed for the construction of telecommunication (telco) towers over the next three years, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said Saturday.

The committee, led by Senator Sonny Angara and House Deputy Speaker Luis Raymund Villafuerte, approved the proposal to suspend certain permits, excluding building permit, for telco towers during the first meeting to reconcile the disagreeing provisions of both chambers of Congress’ versions of the proposed Bayanihan 2 or Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or Bayanihan 2.

Drilon, who proposed the suspension, said complex requirements for the construction of telco towers slow down the improvement of internet services in the country.

“With this amendment, we can address this very complex process that hinders the country from being at par with our neighboring countries in terms of internet speed and connectivity. It is deplorable that the Philippines continues to have one of the slowest internet connections in Southeast Asia and even among Asia Pacific countries,” Drilon said in a statement.

Drilon cited that there are 29 to 35 required documents and permits before a single tower could be constructed in a subdivision, barangay or town.

The senator added that the permits include “consent of the neighbors, barangay resolution, certificate of non-coverage, zoning clearance, height clearance, radiation evaluation studies, building permit, a city or municipal resolution, occupancy permit, mayor’s permit, among others.”

The approval of the suspension of requirements for telco towers is timely as faster internet services are needed for work and school, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, Drilon noted.

“Internet today has become a basic commodity. It is a tool that we can utilize for work and education as we deal with the pandemic. Many businesses today are heavily dependent on the internet. Hence, we must do everything to improve our telecommunication infrastructure which telcos have agreed to readily provide,” Drilon said.

/MUF