Globe flags excessive HOA fees, access limits hindering urgent connectivity restoration

• IN PHOTO: A Globe cell site disguised as palm trees in a village, designed to blend into the surroundings and reduce visual impact. (Photo by Jocel De Guzman)

By TechWatch PH Staff

Globe is calling on local government units (LGUs) and homeowners’ associations (HOAs) to support its ongoing network expansion, restoration, and maintenance efforts in gated communities.

The company reported that it currently facing delays in restoring network services due to access restrictions, costly fees, and administrative barriers imposed by several HOAs. These include permit requirements, per-entry charges, and construction bonds in which some are recurring, excessive, or undefined in scope.

In one unnamed village, Globe said that its workers are reportedly charged P100,000 for access with no specified validity period, while another imposes P5,000 per day regardless of the work being done. Some villages even prohibit the extension of fiber facilities altogether, preventing residents from accessing upgraded services.

Globe stressed that cooperation in these initiatives is crucial to strengthen network reliability and ensure uninterrupted mobile and broadband connectivity for residents and customers.

“Timely access to our infrastructure is critical in preventing service disruptions and maintaining a seamless experience for our customers,” said Joel Agustin, Globe’s Head of Service Planning and Engineering. “We recognize the importance of village security protocols and are committed to working in full coordination with HOA representatives.”

Globe cited the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Department Order No. 2022-012, which states that “consent [is] not required for laying cables on existing poles, underground fiber ducts, and other physical telecommunications infrastructure.”

The order affirms that perpetual consent is granted during the original installation, allowing utilities to conduct maintenance and restoration without new approvals.

The company also referred to the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 9904, or the Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners’ Associations, which prohibits preventing access to or restricting the entry of utility service providers for installing, maintaining, or disconnecting services under an approved contract or application.

Globe stressed that while it fully respects the autonomy and security protocols of private communities, restoring and maintaining network infrastructure is essential to safeguarding the digital access of residents. Globe coordinated with various HOAs and engaged local government partners including barangay units and LGUs concerned to ensure proper consultations are met.

“We seek the support of HOAs as partners in connectivity. These restoration activities are for the benefit of their own residents, ensuring that families continue to enjoy reliable service amid growing demand,” Agustin added.