An advocacy group is pushing for the suspension of lease fees on broadband connectivity in order to provide wider internet access to more Filipinos.
In an interview, Digital Pinoys national campaigner Ronald Gustilo said that lifting lease fees would also ‘positively impact’ the lives of internet users in the country and their contacts abroad.
“The lifting of lease fees for telcos and internet service providers may lead to better Wi-Fi and telecommunications services for the public and will also improve connectivity, as this will impact the lives of internet users positively,” he said.
He urged more property and building owners to allow rent-free broadband connection to provide more services, especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).
The Department of Information Communications and Technology (DICT) earlier expressed support for legislation that would improve digital connectivity in the country.
Over 60,000 cell towers are needed to provide adequate internet connection to Filipinos, according to the Asian Development Bank. Globe Telecom has been pushing to eliminate lease fees to “foster a more competitive market and enhance internet accessibility for the public.
“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,” Globe vice president and head for site lifecycle management service Michelle Ora said.—Mariel Celine Serquiña/AOL, GMA Integrated News
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