Globe advocates for lease-free telco infrastructure

Globe Telecom is championing a significant shift in the telecom industry by promoting a “zero lease” policy across commercial properties in the Philippines, benefiting 615 establishments including malls, offices, and hotels.

The initiative allows telecom companies to install in-building solutions (IBS) without the burden of lease fees, aiming to enhance national connectivity.

Ernest Cu, President and CEO of Globe, praised the cooperation of property owners, noting, “The properties giving free IBS space for telco solutions show zero lease is an achievable reality here. Their visionary stance paves the way for collaborative infrastructure policies that will help uplift our digital economy and society, altogether accelerating the country’s digitalization journey.”

This move aligns with international practices seen in Australia, Singapore, and Hong Kong, where legislation supports essential utilities being available in new buildings without additional costs to service providers. These policies are cited as contributing to competitive markets and broader access to necessary digital services for consumers.

The Philippines could see similar benefits if legislative proposals currently being considered are passed. House Bill No. 900, introduced by Tarlac 2nd District Rep. Christian Tell Yap, and House Bill No. 8534, by Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda, propose the institutionalization of zero lease policies for telecom facilities. These bills aim to classify telco infrastructures, such as IBS, as mandatory in new developments, thereby preventing additional charges for telecom provisioning.

Cu emphasized the potential impact of these policies, stating, “Globe is committed to working hand-in-hand with the government and the private sector to implement zero lease for telco infrastructure across the Philippines. Our nation can unleash its digital growth potential by learning from successful examples in the region and enacting progressive policies.”

By removing lease costs and promoting infrastructure sharing, Globe hopes to boost the Philippine telecom industry’s competitiveness and accelerate digital infrastructure development across the country.