Globe backs unified, planned underground conduit policy to reduce fiber cuts

Globe is backing efforts from LGUs and national government agencies to establish a unified national policy on underground conduit infrastructure.   This is a step toward eliminating fiber theft and fiber cuts that impact overall network experience in the country.  

The proposal with recommendations was submitted by Globe under the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Digital Infrastructure sector which calls for a coordinated national framework to guide the planning, construction, and governance of underground conduit systems. This would address fragmented implementation across local government units while establishing national technical standards, designating a lead agency to oversee nationwide deployment, and assigning accountability to ensure maintenance of the digital infrastructure. 

The company sees this as a timely move as the Dig Once Policy as stipulated in Section 17 of the Konektadong Pinoy Act (Republic Act No. 12234).

The nation’s digital infrastructure has become increasingly important with the expansion of the country’s digital economy. Unfortunately,  climate-related disasters,  accidental,  and intentional fiber cuts continue to disrupt connectivity. Globe revealed that more than 14,000 fiber cut incidents were recorded in 2025, underscoring the need to build better infrastructure that can help eliminate disruptions.

Globe General Counsel and President of the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) Froi Castelo said the proposed policy would provide the consistency needed to make underground infrastructure deployment more efficient nationwide.

“A common policy for shared use of underground conduit infrastructure will give the industry a common framework for planning, deployment and long-term management. 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 said.

For Globe, strengthening network resiliency has long been part of its infrastructure strategy. The company previously reported completing more than 1,500 kilometers of underground fiber facilities, contributing to a significant reduction in fiber cut incidents in the selected areas.

“Digital infrastructure is now as essential as roads infrastructure 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,” Globe Senior Vice President for Service Planning and Engineering Joel Agustin said.

The proposed policy also encourages closer coordination among national government agencies and local government units in developing a National Underground Conduits Master Plan, establishing common technical standards, and creating a governance framework for the long-term operation and shared use of underground infrastructure.

As Globe continues investing in resilient network infrastructure, the company remains committed to working with government and industry partners to help build a digital ecosystem that supports inclusive economic growth and delivers better connectivity experiences for Filipinos.

For more information, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Via: thephilippinesherald