Globe Telecom is intensifying efforts to eliminate lease fees for installing telecom equipment inside buildings and to have developers include connectivity infrastructure from the beginning of construction projects.
The move seeks to lessen operating costs for telcos, foster a more competitive market and enhance internet accessibility for the public.
Globe vice president and head for site lifecycle management services Michelle Ora said the company continues to champion its zero lease call across different venues, engaging property developers to get them onboard.
“We continue to champion zero lease across different venues and stakeholders. We work closely with our property developer partners through holding workshops, where we talk to them about how to master plan their developments,” Ora said.
“We invite them to work with us at the earliest stage possible so we can integrate telco infra at the onset, even prior to their actual construction. So that when they turnover the property to the resident or the tenant, it is already complete, not just with power and water but also connectivity,” she said.
Globe has been actively engaging with property owners and developers to promote the advocacy.
Around 615 properties including malls, offices and hotels across the Philippines are already providing space with zero lease to accommodate in-building solutions of telecom companies.
“When we put in the facilities, they’re meant to enable the different customers or tenants that these property owners also serve. 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. On their end, they need to make sure that the connectivity infrastructure, the facilities are ready at no cost to providers,” Ora said.
She said some developers remained resistant to change.
“We have been speaking to various partners from the real estate sector, and we have received mixed responses. We have found fellow champions and advocates of our zero-lease push. 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.
Globe also supports legislative reform that would institutionalize the removal of lease fees.
