Mayor Blames Telco Negligence for Internet Service Disruptions

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor and Jennifer P. Rendon

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas refuted claims that the underground cabling project at Calle Real caused recent internet and cable service disruptions.

Treñas addressed allegations from an unidentified PLDT contractor, who claimed that disruptions along Sto. Rosario, Dela Rama, Duran, and Sagrado areas resulted from instructions from his office.

He clarified that the issue stems from telecommunication companies, particularly PLDT, failing to comply with the 2023 ordinance requiring underground utility wiring.

“The ordinance requiring all utility wires to be placed underground was passed in 2023 and applies to all utility providers operating in Iloilo City,” Treñas said in a December 25 statement.

The ordinance mandates underground cabling in key areas, including Calle Real, Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue, Sunburst Park, and all cultural and heritage sites. Non-compliance after three notices incurs a PHP 5,000 fine, and continued violations risk business permit cancellation.

Treñas emphasized that utility providers had a full year to prepare for the transition but failed to act, forcing the city government to prioritize the removal of wires and poles along Calle Real.

“Contractors were given sufficient time—an entire year—to comply with this requirement, yet they failed to take action. Now, they are compelled to adhere to the law, and instead of taking responsibility, they unfairly shift the blame to the City Government,” he said.

The mayor called the accusations “unjust and unacceptable,” noting that the City Engineer’s Office has already been instructed to dismantle non-compliant infrastructure.

Underground Cabling Project

The underground cabling ordinance aims to improve infrastructure safety, enhance city aesthetics, and support economic growth.

On May 23, 2023, MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), Iloilo City’s sole power distributor, launched its PHP 96.4-million Calle Real Underground Distribution System (UDS) project.

The three-phase UDS project aims to remove overhead lines to improve safety and foster economic opportunities for businesses and communities.

Compliance Deadline

Treñas extended the compliance deadline for PLDT, Cable Star, and Globe from December 16 to December 31 following requests for additional time.

However, he stressed that no further extensions would be granted and warned of immediate action against companies that fail to comply.

“Telecom companies must take responsibility for fulfilling their obligations. We are working toward a safer, more modern city, and compliance with this law is non-negotiable,” he said.

The mayor reiterated his commitment to Iloilo City’s progress and dismissed baseless claims from service providers attempting to deflect responsibility.

“We will not allow baseless accusations to derail this progress,” Treñas concluded.