Globe seeks uniform LGU permit process

MANILA, Philippines — Telco giant Globe Telecom Inc. is seeking uniform local government unit (LGU) standards to maximize the potential of Executive Order 32, which simplifies the process for telco permitting.

Globe is calling on the need for more LGUs to consistently apply streamlined processes under EO 32 to make the best use of its potential in reducing bottlenecks associated with securing essential permits.

According to the Ayala-led telco, persistent challenges such as failure to implement the Electronic Business One Stop Shop as well as varying requirements and ordinances in some LGUs have slowed the pace of tower construction in certain areas.

Globe said these challenges have also raised costs due to additional fees and extended approval times.

Along with establishing uniform standards, Globe said that eliminating excessive fees and requirements are likewise important in creating a more supportive environment for telco infrastructure growth.

“We are committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to address these challenges,” Globe vice president and strategic partnerships and programs head Michelle Ora said.

“We believe that by working together, we can create a more conducive environment for telco builds. This will help ensure that more Filipinos have access to affordable and reliable telecommunications services,” she said.

Globe said that it continues its partnership with the Anti-Red Tape Authority, LGUs and other industry leaders to connect every Filipino to a stronger and more reliable telecom network.

To further reinforce the effective implementation of EO 32, Globe is advocating for additional onboarding and engagement workshops with LGUs and homeowners’ associations nationwide.

The company said that such sessions will deepen understanding of the EO and underscore the crucial role of telecom infrastructure in community development.

With the implementation of EO 32, Globe has seen substantial progress, recording a 20 percent improvement in permits processing and issuance from 2022 to mid-2024.

Globe has also built over 4,000 cell towers and deployed more than three million fiber-to-the-home lines from 2021 to the first half of the year.

The company said that these developments have been vital to its 5G and fiber infrastructure expansion which addresses the nation’s growing demand for affordable, reliable and accessible connectivity.

“We are grateful for the government’s efforts to streamline the permitting process. In particular, we commend the President for issuing Executive Order 32, which has helped speed up the issuance of permits,” Ora said.