RESIDENTS of Sitio Lower Calvary in Barangay Apas, Cebu City have every reason to oppose the installation of a new cell site tower in their area.
You see, six years ago, the sitio had two such facilities and it just so happened that it also had 30 cancer cases.
Coincidence? Perhaps. But could you blame them for arriving at the conclusion that the two were linked, especially the families of the 19 who lost their battle to the disease?
The uproar raised by members of the Cavalry Hills, Apas Residents’ Organization (Charo) might have even prompted the City Council to revoke the permit of one of the towers, which resulted in its dismantling in 2016.
So imagine their dismay when they found out about the proposal to build another one in their midst.
Granted, their fears might be unfounded.
According to the American Cancer Society, “there’s no strong evidence that exposure to RF (radiofrequency) waves from cell phone towers causes any noticeable health effects.”
However, it went on to say that “this does not mean that the RF waves from cell phone towers have been proven to be absolutely safe. Most expert organizations agree that more research is needed to help clarify this, especially for any possible long-term effects.”
You see, these towers have electronic equipment and antennas that receive and transmit cell phone signals using RF waves.
And how did I know that? I didn’t, actually. I just lifted that information from the American Cancer Society’s website. In fact, I encourage everyone, especially members of Charo, to go to cancer.org and read up on the subject. They might have a change of heart on the matter afterwards.
At any rate, cell site towers are here to stay whether we like it or not. At least, as long as cellphones are in use.
And for many, a cellphone is no longer a luxury. The gadget has become so affordable that almost everyone can own one. Mind you, it’s not only for texting or calling. Those who have smartphones also use these to browse the internet, play games or transact.
As for residents of Little Cavalry, they have nothing to worry about. The sitio is not even on the list of areas that Dito Telecommunity Corp., the country’s 3rd telco player, plans to install cell site towers.
So I don’t understand what the fuss is all about. Unless, of course, this has nothing to do with health. After all, cell site towers can be found in many parts of the city.