MANILA – More than 12,000 permits and clearances for telecommunications infrastructure projects have been approved nationwide in 2026, reflecting efforts by local government units (LGUs) to speed up internet expansion, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported.
As of September, a total of 12,241 permits had been approved across 707 cities and municipalities, facilitating the construction and installation of telecommunications towers and other internet facilities.
The DILG said the faster processing of applications supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push to improve digital connectivity, particularly in underserved and remote communities.
“LGUs continue to open doors for telecommunications companies to expand their services, even in hard-to-reach areas,” the department said.
The agency attributed the improvements to the implementation of Executive Order No. 32, series of 2023, which streamlines the permitting process for telecommunications and internet infrastructure projects.
The order covers applications from public telecommunications entities, cable television operators, independent tower companies and other infrastructure providers.
Under the directive, LGUs are encouraged to implement a Zero Backlog Policy to prevent unnecessary delays in approving telecommunications projects.
Local governments are also required to submit annual reports on pending applications to the Anti-Red Tape Authority to monitor compliance with streamlined procedures.
Despite the progress, the DILG reported that 94 LGUs are still processing 2,046 telecommunications infrastructure permit applications.
The department reminded local officials to act on pending applications within the processing periods prescribed by law.
It emphasized that efficient and transparent permitting procedures are essential to preventing administrative delays that could hinder the expansion of telecommunications services.
The DILG also warned that officials responsible for unnecessary delays or irregularities in issuing permits and clearances could face penalties under Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.
The department urged LGUs to maintain simplified procedures and strengthen coordination with telecommunications providers to accelerate infrastructure development.
The initiative aims to expand reliable internet connectivity and improve access to digital services, including online government transactions, especially in communities with limited telecommunications infrastructure.
