Marcos issues EO to streamline permits for telcos, internet infra

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued an executive order (EO) streamlining the permitting process for the construction of telecommunications and Internet infrastructure in the country.

Under EO No. 32, all government agencies and local government units will be covered by a set of guidelines for the issuance of permits, licenses, clearances, certifications, and authorizations for the establishment of telecommunications and Internet infrastructures.

This will include 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.

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

Among those exempted are building permits issued by the Office of the Building Official; Height Clearance Permit 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.

The order also mandates all 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.

Subject to existing laws, rules, and regulations, all covered government agencies and LGUs are enjoined to implement a 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 a list of pending applications and compliance to the Anti-Red Tape Authority.

The EO also mandates the creation of a Technical Working Group (TWG) on Telecommunications and Internet Infrastructure which will oversee the implementation of the order.

The TWG, chaired by the Department of Information and Communications Technology, is mandated to craft the EO’s implementing rules and regulations within 60 days from the effectivity of the order.—LDF, GMA Integrated News