Residents of Cerritos Heights, through the Cerritos Heights Homeowners Association Inc. (CHHAI), appealed anew to concerned authorities to allow other internet service providers (ISPs) to set up a fiber internet in their subdivision in Molino 4, Bacoor City, Cavite.
The CHHAI said that Planet Cable, which is owned by the subdivision’s developer, is the lone fixed internet provider in Cerritos Heights Phases 1 and 2, Cerritos Terraces, and Cerritos Hills Phases 1, 2, at 3.
The residents made the appeal after the subdivision developer’s security guards allegedly prevented Globe Telecom personnel from setting up an internet connection in the area last Tuesday.
"This week, a team of armed guards allegedly sent by Camella's subsidiary practically shooed the Globe contractors away, telling them that they need a permit from Camella before they could proceed," said CHHAI president Toteng Tanglao.
"The guards said they will not honor the notice to proceed issued by the HOA (homeowners’ association) to Globe," he added.
Tanglao stressed the greater need for faster internet amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.
"Panahon ng pandemya at kailangan ng mga tao ng reliable internet, yet Camella is reportedly choosing to harass telcos from servicing more people!"
Officials of Camella and the subdivision developer could not be reached for comment as of press time.
“We wish to assert our right to enjoy the benefits of competition, especially in getting the best possible internet provider. The need for reliable connectivity is even more pronounced today, especially as the uncertainty over the COVID-19 pandemic is forcing everyone to adapt to the new normal,” the HOA said in a statement.
“This means work-from-home is no longer an option but a requirement in order to keep jobs. Students will also transition to online learning because this is now part of the Philippine education system,” the residents said.
The CHHAI has earlier asked the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) to act on the alleged monopoly of Planet Cable inside their subdivision.
The group has already filed a petition seeking to allow other internet service providers to operate inside their subdivision and a ‘back up’ intern in case Planet Cable’s connection malfunctions or encounters problems.
