A proposal that will enable telecommunications companies (telcos) to build cell site towers without seeking permits from local entities has been adopted by the bicameral conference committee. The proposal, presented by Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, gives telcos three permit-free years to ramp up the installation of the towers. Hence, we must do everything to improve our telecommunication infrastructure which telcos have agreed to readily provide,” he said. “The three-year reprieve period will give telcos sufficient time to complete the infrastructure required to improve their services,” Drilon said. The telcos said massive red tape was delaying their projects, and that it takes years to acquire clearances and permits to build cell sites and towers.

Source: Manila Times August 15, 2020 16:18 UTC