LGUs approve over 12,000 telecom permits as internet rollout expands

More than 12,000 permits and clearances for telecommunications infrastructure projects have been approved nationwide this year as local governments streamline processing to support network expansion, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said Monday.

As of September, 12,241 permits had been approved across 707 cities and municipalities, covering telecommunications towers and other internet infrastructure.

The DILG said more local government units are adopting simplified procedures under Executive Order No. 32, which streamlined permitting for telecommunications and internet infrastructure. The order covers applications from public telecommunications entities, cable television operators, independent tower companies and other providers.

“LGUs continue to open doors for telecommunications companies to expand their services, even in hard-to-reach areas,” the department said.

Under the policy, LGUs are expected to minimize backlogs and process permits within prescribed timelines.

The DILG said 94 LGUs are still processing 2,046 telecommunications infrastructure applications.

The department reminded local officials that delays and red tape in processing permits may result in penalties under Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.

The DILG said faster permitting would help accelerate the construction of telecommunications facilities and expand internet access, particularly in underserved and remote areas.

The department has also been using its Telecommunication Permit Online Monitoring System to monitor LGU compliance with telecommunications permitting requirements.