PhilTower Consortium Inc., an independent tower operator, is planning to construct 1,000 telecommunications towers nationwide in response to the increasing demand for digital infrastructure.

According to PhilTower president and CEO Devid Gubiani, the company has allocated nearly $150 million in capital expenditures this year to support this ambitious expansion.

40% outside Luzon

A significant portion of these towers — around 30 to 40 percent — is set to be built in the Visayas and Mindanao, along with isolated or more remote areas in North Luzon and South Luzon.

“This year will be a tremendous year from a build perspective with all the operators coming back into the activities. We see strong activities from Globe, we see strong activities from Smart, and even so for DITO. So that implies additional investments,” Gubiani said.

PhilTower, in partnership with MIESCOR Infrastructure Development Corp., currently manages a portfolio of 3,500 towers.

Recently, the two companies signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority to boost digital connectivity in key BCDA areas, including Bonifacio Global City, New Clark City and Morong Discovery Park.