The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is reassessing its common tower policy to align it with the newly enacted Konektadong Pinoy Act, a law aimed at improving internet and communications access nationwide.
DICT undersecretary Sarah Maria Sison said the common tower policy was designed to encourage telecom companies to share infrastructure, reduce environmental and social impact, and speed up connectivity rollout. With the passage of Republic Act No. 12234, the DICT sees the need to update the policy to keep it relevant and responsive to current industry conditions.
As part of the review, the DICT held consultations with key stakeholders to gather technical insights and real-world experiences. The department said these inputs will guide proposed amendments to ensure the policy remains practical, inclusive, and aligned with national connectivity goals.
The reassessment builds on recent reforms, including the extension of tower license validity from five years to 15 years. This move aims to cut red tape, allow tower companies more time to build infrastructure, and accelerate network deployment. The longer license period also brings the Philippines closer to global practices, where tower permits typically last 10 to 30 years or longer.
The common tower policy, outlined in Department Circular No. 008, Series of 2020, allows multiple telecom providers to share tower sites instead of building separate structures. This approach helps lower costs, speed up tower construction, and expand coverage across the country.
The DICT said these measures are part of a broader strategy to modernize regulations, support industry partners, and ensure reliable connectivity for all Filipinos. Current tower companies include Alliance Towers, American Tower, EdgePoint, EDOTCO, Frontier Tower Associates, Ison Tower, LBS Digital Infrastructure Corp., PhilTower, Miescor Infrastructure Development Corp., and Unity Digital Infrastructure.
