LGUs approve over 12,000 telecom permits as PH internet rollout speeds up

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More than 12,000 permits and clearances for telecommunications infrastructure projects have been approved nationwide this year, potentially clearing one of the biggest bottlenecks in the expansion of internet networks across the Philippines.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government said 12,241 permits were approved across 707 cities and municipalities as of September 2026, covering telecommunications towers and other internet infrastructure.

“LGUs continue to open doors for telecommunications companies to expand their services, even in hard-to-reach areas,” the DILG said.

The approvals come as local governments adopt simplified procedures under Executive Order No. 32, which streamlined the permitting process for telecommunications and internet infrastructure projects involving telcos, cable operators and independent tower companies.

The policy also requires LGUs to observe a Zero Backlog Policy for telecom infrastructure applications, with pending applications reported annually to the Anti-Red Tape Authority.

Despite the progress, 2,046 applications remain pending across 94 LGUs, according to the DILG. The Department said these applications must be acted on within the processing periods prescribed by law.

The DILG said faster permitting could help telecommunications companies deploy infrastructure more quickly, particularly in underserved and hard-to-reach communities where internet connectivity remains limited.

The Department also reminded local officials that unnecessary delays or red tape in issuing permits and clearances may result in penalties under Republic Act No. 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business Law.

Faster approvals, however, are only the first step. The impact will ultimately depend on how quickly approved towers and network facilities are actually built, activated and translated into better internet service for Filipinos.