GLOBE Telecom is backing a proposed national policy on underground conduit infrastructure to help reduce fiber cuts and cable theft, and improve network reliability.
In a statement Saturday, the telecommunications company said it submitted a proposal through the Private Sector Advisory Council’s (PSAC) Digital Infrastructure sector, calling for a coordinated national framework for the planning, construction, and management of underground conduit systems.
The framework would address inconsistent implementation among local government units by establishing national technical standards, designating a lead agency to oversee nationwide deployment, and defining responsibility for infrastructure maintenance.
Network disruptions remain a major concern for the company. In 2025, Globe recorded more than 14,000 fiber cut incidents caused by natural disasters, accidents, and theft.
It said a unified national policy on underground conduits is timely, following the adoption of the “Dig Once” policy under Section 17 of the Konektadong Pinoy Act or Republic Act 12234.
“A common policy for shared use of underground conduit infrastructure will give the industry a common framework for planning, deployment and long-term management,” said Froi Castelo, Globe general counsel and president of the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators.
“Clear governance and consistent national standards will accelerate network rollouts, improve resilience to service disruptions, and optimize investments that ultimately benefit consumers and the country’s digital economy,” he added.
Globe has been expanding its underground fiber network as part of efforts to improve network resilience. The company previously reported completing more than 1,500 kilometers of underground fiber facilities, which it said significantly reduced fiber cut incidents in areas covered by the network.
“Digital infrastructure is now as essential as roads and power systems. A unified underground conduit framework can help the country build networks that are more resilient and better equipped to support the Philippines’ growing digital economy,” said Joel Agustin, Globe senior vice president for service planning and engineering.
The proposed policy also calls for closer coordination between national government agencies and local governments in developing a National Underground Conduits Master Plan, setting common technical standards and establishing rules for the long-term operation and shared use of underground infrastructure.
