Globe on Tuesday, July 6, said that a barangay resolution of Barangay Plainview in Mandaluyong City prohibiting the construction and operations of cell sites within its territorial jurisdiction is against the law. Globe sent a position paper addressed to Mandaluyong City Councilor Roehl Bacar to argue against the barangay resolution. 

The resolution in question was passed in 2019 by the Barangay Plainview Council, banning the construction and introduction of cell towers, sites, and structures. The ban is based on “medical reports” that cell towers can possibly cause health problems. In 2020, the Food and Drug Administration reassured the public that cell sites are safe, as a safety evaluation is conducted prior to installation.

Globe said the Philippine Congress has granted it authority in the form of a franchise to put up telecommunication stations, which include cell sites. 

“So any barangay resolution or even a barangay ordinance or even an ordinance or resolution passed and approved by a local council higher than a barangay council that conflicts with the legislative franchise of Globe Telecom is void and without effect,” said Alejandro Gozon, Globe senior legal counsel and head of litigation.

The company said that “inconsistent local rules” continue to hinder the rollout of essential cell sites, which may help enhance the quality of the telco’s service. 

“It is very unfortunate that there remain local government units that continue to deny their own communities fast and reliable connectivity at a time when people, businesses, and even government rely on the internet for work, school, day-to-day needs, and the delivery of public services,” Gozon added.

“We urge Barangay Plainview to reconsider its decision and allow us to be a partner in providing top-notch telecommunication services in the area,” Gozon finished.

Globe reiterated that network upgrades and expansion are essential in improving connectivity, increasing internet access, and facilitating the digitalization of Filipino businesses and homes.

For 2021, Globe has earmarked P70 billion in capital expenditure for 4G-LTE, 5G, and Fiber-to-the-Home rollout.

Councilor Roehl Bacar issued a statement on Wednesday, July 7, saying, “While it is unfortunate that such barangay resolution was issued, our office will mediate and help resolve any misunderstandings between Barangay Plainview’s Council and Globe Telecom, Inc. in order to arrive at a solution beneficial to all concerned within the bounds of law.”

Bacar also said that upon review of relevant laws, it “appears that the Barangay Resolution has been superseded by Republic Act Nos. 11469 (2020) and 11494 (2020) and Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1 (s. 2020).” He also cited a 2020 city resolution acknowledging national directives to streamline processes for telco utilities. – Rappler.com