PLDT welcomes NTC’s call to fast-track permits for fiber optic

MANILA, Philippines — Telco giant PLDT Inc. has welcomed the appeal of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to various government agencies to include fiber optic networks in streamlining of permits.

The NTC on Monday wrote the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, and Anti-Red Tape Authority requesting the inclusion of fiber optic networks in the streamlining of permitting processes similar to the agencies’ joint memorandum circular on telco towers.

The NTC said fiber optic networks are equally important alongside common towers in providing the much needed telecommunications infrastructure.

In addition to right-of-way concerns, the number of permits and licenses, lead time and processes of rolling out fiber optic networks are similar to the applications for permits and licenses of cell towers, according to the NTC.

“Telecommunications and connectivity play a critical role in stimulating the growth of the modern economy and in developing a strong digital ecosystem. It has become even more relevant today as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to plague the country,” PLDT chief revenue officer Alfredo Panlilio said.

“We welcome this opportunity to work more closely with the government in expanding our fiber network footprint across the country in order to deliver the best network quality and nationwide coverage, including the unserved and underserved areas in our country,” he said.

As of end-September, PLDT’s fiber network stood at 395,000 kilometers. Its fiber network also supports Smart Communications Inc.’s mobile network by providing high capacity links for its LTE base stations.

The NTC has also earlier requested Secretary Mark Villar to consider the proposed amendments to the existing rules and regulations of DPWH Department Order 73 on right-of-way.