Globe Telecom has secured zero-lease agreements with 615 property owners, including malls, offices, and hotels, advancing its campaign to position telecom providers on equal footing with other utilities that do not pay rent.
“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,” said Michelle Ora, Globe vice president and head for site lifecycle management services.
“On their end, they need to make sure that the connectivity infrastructure, the facilities are ready at no cost to providers,” she added.
Globe said this will lower costs as it seeks to reallocate resources towards expanding and enhancing its network.
Challenges remain as Ora noted that some developers are resisting their push for zero-lease payments.
“These are developers who are more progressive in viewing connectivity as a necessity and a differentiator for their townships and buildings. There are also those who continue to push back,” she said.
On top of this, Globe is backing House Bills 8534 and 900, which would pave the way for a law to remove lease fees and mandate IT and connectivity-ready buildings.
Miguel R. Camus has been a reporter covering various domestic business topics since 2009.
