In the push to streamline all telco and internet infrastructure works, Pres. Bongbong Marcos signed Executive Order 32 (EO 32), which aims to streamline the processing of necessary permits. With the issuance of the said EO, the Marcos administration hopes that this will reduce any construction delays to help improve mobile phone and internet services in the Philippines.

“No other national or local permit or clearance shall be required in the construction, installation, repair, operation, and maintenance of telecommunications and Internet infrastructure,” Marcos said in the EO.

Under EO 32, required permits include building permits issued by the Office of the Building Official; height clearance permits from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, homeowners associations, and other community clearances; clearances from other government agencies; and “other requirements as mandated by the Constitution and existing laws.”

Beyond the construction of new telco infrastructure, EO 32 also covers all national government agencies, government-owned and –controlled corporations, and local government units (LGUs) that issue permits, licenses, clearances, certifications, and authorizations.

All telco companies praised the signing of the said EO, as it will help in improving telco services in the Philippines. “The EO will most definitely benefit not only DITO in our efforts to hasten our infrastructure rollout but most importantly the Filipino people who are to enjoy sooner the fruits of faster, more affordable, and reliable services,” DITO Chief Administrative Officer Adel Tamano said.

“This will help accelerate the country’s digital transformation and open doors for more opportunities to Filipinos in the areas of education, employment, and innovation,” Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu said.