Converge’s Dennis Uy pushes for more future-proof infrastructure

MANILA, Philippines — Converge ICT Solutions Inc. CEO and co-founder Dennis Anthony Uy is pushing for the construction of more future-proof infrastructure in the country, such as underground conduit systems.

A standard in advanced economies like Singapore, underground conduit systems benefit power and telecom providers as they offer network resilience and allow for streamlined provisioning, repair and upgrades of lines.

Uy said these structures shield cables far better than overhead lines, and in turn, help reduce the need for repairs that are often slowed by permitting hurdles with local authorities.

“For electric repairs, you don’t have to wait for permission to restore power, same when there are major pipe leakages. They can fix it immediately. Unfortunately, it’s different for ISPs. But with underground conduits, cables are less susceptible to cuts and damages so that means more reliable and consistent connectivity for customers,” Uy said.

Unlike aerial-installed cable lines, the underground infrastructure also helps mitigate public safety risks, improve city aesthetics and facilitate better urban planning and development by promoting the optimal use of urban spaces.

In line with his call for more future-proof infrastructure, the tech tycoon lauded the underground conduit network project of the Makati Central Estate Association Inc. (MaCEA), which seeks to build a single raceway for all the data providers operating in the Makati central business district.

MaCEA, a civic body composed of property owners and developers in the Makati CBD, spearheaded the underground conduit network project, aiming to adapt with global best practices when it comes to business district infrastructure.

Uy said that the underground conduit network will provide a robust structural backbone for telecom providers and reduce disruption in the city’s business district over time.

“Converge is actively supporting initiatives and practices that enhance efficiency across the telco industry. I’m a strong proponent of the ‘Dig Once’ policy, which is reinforced by the Konektadong Pinoy Act, for its advantages for service providers, local governments and cities as a whole,” he said.

According to Uy, Converge is well positioned to provide not just the backbone of connectivity, but all the additional digital tools and services that can empower building owners for the next wave of the future.

“We believe in ‘Tech for Good.’ That means everything we do, from connectivity to system integration and innovation, is geared toward not just advancing business but uplifting the community as a whole,” he said.

As one of the leading fixed broadband service providers in the country, Converge has one of the most extensive fiber networks with over 896,000 kilometers of fiber optic assets nationwide.