The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is looking at simplifying issuance of permits for the construction of common telecommunications tower. It hopes to “lessen Common Tower Permitting requirements by 52% in 2020.”

“Since last year, we have been working on streamlining the permitting for Independent Tower Companies (ITCs),” Emmanuel Rey Caintic, assistant secretary for Digital Philippines, DICT, said in a statement. “We are looking into cutting down redundant or duplicitous permitting requirements for ITCs (Independent Tower Companies) to reduce the number by more than 50%, and at the same time, reduce the average processing days.

The department also said that it is actively collaborating with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and other government agencies in ensuring streamlined permitting requirements and procedures for ITCs.

DICT, Internet Society launch information technology framework

Malaysian firm edotco signs MOU with DICT to advance mobile connectivity in the Philippines

“We would like to thank ARTA for their continuous support and assistance to the DICT in making sure Barangays, Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies, and Homeowners Associations (HOAs) follow the mandated maximum time period for the issuance of necessary permits, clearances, and certifications as provided under Section 15 of the EODB law,” DICT Secretary Gregorio B. Honasan II said in a statement.

Shared PTTI Policy

These efforts are in compliance with the Permitting Process for the Construction and Operation of Passive Telecommunications Tower Infrastructures (PTTIs) as indicated in the recently issued Shared PTTI Policy and with Republic Act 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018 which seeks to streamline current systems and procedures of government services.

A Joint Memorandum Circular for streamlining the issuance of permits is expected to be signed among the DICT, ARTA, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) within the next months.