PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, an order streamlining the process for the repair and construction of telecommunications and internet infrastructure in the country.
Marcos issued EO 32, which simplifies guidelines for the issuance of permits, licenses, and certificates for the construction, installation, repair, operation and maintenance of Shared Passive Telecommunications Tower Infrastructure; and erection of poles, installation of aerial and underground cables and facilities, underground fiber ducts, ground terminals and other transmission telecommunications and Internet infrastructure and facilities.
It is aimed at ensuring the continuous development of the country’s digital infrastructure.
“No other national or local permit or clearance shall be required in the construction, installation, repair, operation, and maintenance of telecommunications and Internet infrastructure,” read the EO.
It includes building permits issued by the Office of the Building Official, Height Clearance Permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap), homeowners associations and other community clearances, clearances from other government agencies, and other requirements as mandated by the Constitution and existing laws.
The order also directs cities and municipalities to set up a one-stop shop for construction permits, which will provide frontline services to applicants securing building permits and other related certificates.
It also organizes a Technical Working Group (TWG) on Telecommunications and Internet Infrastructure as an oversight body to ensure efficient implementation of the order.
“Subject to existing laws, rules and regulations, all covered government agencies and LGUs are enjoined to implement zero backlog policy in all applications for permits and clearances covered by EO 32, which also required them to comply with the annual submission of list of pending applications and compliance to the Anti-Red Tape Authority (Arta),” the Malacañang said. (SunStar Philippines)