Group: Lease-free broadband connectivity leads to wider internet coverage

MANILA, Philippines – A digital advocacy group is urging for the suspension of lease fees on broadband connectivity, saying it will provide wider internet access that benefits more Filipinos.

In an interview, Digital Pinoys National Campaigner Ronald Gustilo said that lifting such fees would also “positively impact” the lives of internet users in the country and their contacts abroad.

"The lifting of lease fees for telcos and internet service providers may lead to better WiFi and telecommunications services for the public and will also improve connectivity, as this will impact the lives of internet users positively," Gustilo said.

For this to be possible, Gustilo urged more property and building owners to allow rent-free broadband connection to provide more services, especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).

Other foreign governments have begun to recognize the value of broadband connectivity to provide adequate internet connection such as Africa and Singapore. The latter's government mandated that there would be no lease to be paid by the telecom operator.

The Department of Information Communications and Technology previously expressed its support for legislation that would improve digital connectivity in the country.

Over 60,000 cell towers are needed to provide adequate internet connection to Filipinos, according to the Asian Development Bank.

Globe Telecom has been pushing to eliminate lease fees to "foster a more competitive market and enhance internet accessibility for the public.

"Connectivity is something that residents or tenants cannot do away with. That's why it's important for developers to work with us and see this as a win-win situation," Globe Vice President and Head for Site Lifecycle Management Service Michelle Ora said.