Insider Spotlight
The independent telecommunications tower company said streamlining regulatory approvals would help infrastructure providers accelerate network deployments, reduce uncertainty and support the country's expanding digital economy.
In a statement to InsiderPH, EDOTCO Group Philippines country managing director Sunil Issac said the country has already demonstrated significant progress through cooperation between national government agencies, LGUs and telecommunications companies.
Government reforms deliver results
Citing Department of the Interior and Local Government data, Issac said more than 12,000 telecommunications permits and clearances had been approved across hundreds of Philippine cities and municipalities as of September 2026.
He credited reforms undertaken by the Anti-Red Tape Authority, Department of Information and Communications Technology, DILG and local governments for improving the regulatory environment.
However, Issac said greater consistency in permitting requirements, clearer approval timelines and wider adoption of digital processes would help sustain infrastructure investments.
Permitting affects investment decisions
Issac emphasized that approval processes directly influence investment planning, construction schedules and the delivery of telecommunications services.
Each telecommunications installation requires substantial investments in engineering, site development, power systems, equipment and maintenance.
Predictable permitting procedures would allow infrastructure companies to translate these investments into operational networks more efficiently.
He also stressed that telecommunications companies must submit complete applications, comply with legitimate requirements and coordinate with local communities.
Shared infrastructure offers advantages
EDOTCO is promoting shared telecommunications towers that accommodate multiple mobile network operators wherever technically feasible.
Such arrangements can reduce infrastructure duplication, improve resource utilization and minimize the construction of multiple towers within communities.
The company said shared infrastructure could also help telecommunications operators expand coverage and redirect resources toward improving network quality and customer services.
Issac said reliable connectivity increasingly determines local competitiveness by supporting businesses, attracting investments and expanding access to education, healthcare and government services.
EDOTCO reaffirmed its commitment to working with government agencies, telecommunications operators and communities to accelerate infrastructure deployment and support the Philippines' long-term digital transformation.
— Edited by Daxim L. Lucas
