Isabela Congressman Seeks to Re-file “Housing Development Digital Connectivity Act”

Over the past week, Isabela 6th District Representative Faustino Dy expressed his intent to re-file House Bill 10388 — also known as the “Housing Development Digital Connectivity Act.” Under the bill, property developers should provide information and communications technology (ICT) providers with sufficient space for network infrastructure in housing projects. This also includes the elimination of hurdles that telcos often face when establishing cell sites.

“In the digital age, it is a basic human right to have good connectivity,” explained Congressman Dy. “Nowadays, no one can live without good connectivity. Telco service is a necessity similar to how power and water. It should be treated as such.” The congressman re-filed the bill believing that its passage could be expedited. The House of Representatives had already approved the bill on the third reading, but it failed to reach the bicameral level.

“This bill requires real estate developers to give space to telcos, to really allow our consumers and people living in communities to benefit from this service,” Dy elaborated during an event hosted by Globe Telecom, Inc. Among the attendees were members of the real estate sector who, likewise, supported the bill.

Victor Consunji, President and CEO of Victor Consunji Development Corporation (VCDC), noted how the reception was often unavailable in some of their development projects due to a lack of cell towers. “That was literally standing in the way of progress. That’s when everything shifted and I said whatever space you want, go get it, just get towers in. It’s a win-win situation for everybody,” recalled Consunji.

“Think about your buyers and your customers. I’d like to commend all developers already doing this and leading this kind of innovation in their partnerships. Those who are not doing it yet, please do it for your customers,” furthered Congressman Dy. “Being in government, our role is people-centered, all laws should benefit the Filipino people. So please come on board, without a doubt it’s so vital in our everyday life. I’m asking other developers to let telcos operate in your areas.”

Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu also expressed his support for this move. “We are encouraged by Congressman Dy’s move to refile this bill that is crucial in achieving our goal to connect as many households as possible to reliable connectivity,” he noted. “This will benefit our people at a time when internet access has become a lifeline.”

Source: Manila Bulletin