Globe says zero lease can be done, lauds over 600 commercial properties with lease-free agreements

Globe lauds owners and developers of 615 properties across the Philippines for providing space at no cost to accommodate in-building solutions (IBS) of telecom companies.

These forward-thinking establishments, which include malls, offices, and hotels, demonstrate that a “zero lease” approach to telco infrastructure can be effective in the local market. All 615 properties agreed to a no-lease arrangement from day one.

Connectivity, just like power and water, has become an essential part of people’s lives, especially for work, learning, and entertainment. Globe believes it should be readily available to tenants and customers without them having to shoulder the added costs passed on from lease fees.

“The properties giving free IBS space for telco solutions show zero lease is an achievable reality here,” said Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO. “Their visionary stance paves the way for collaborative infrastructure policies that will help uplift our digital economy and society, altogether accelerating the country’s digitalization journey.”

The telco giant is spearheading a push for nationwide adoption of a zero lease policy that will remove rental fees for IBS facilities within buildings. This aligns with successful practices in Australia, Singapore, and Hong Kong aimed at reducing industry costs, fostering competitiveness, and improving digital connectivity for consumers.

In Australia, developers must fund pit and pipe works for premises to have essential utilities ready when completed. Singapore and Hong Kong require buildings to provide adequate telco space and access without charge.

The company supports legislative efforts to institutionalize zero lease nationwide. Currently pending at the House of Representatives are House Bill No. 900, filed by Tarlac 2nd District Rep. Christian Tell Yap, which pushes for the classification of telecom facilities like IBS as mandatory infrastructure that multi-dwelling, commercial, office, school, and hospital buildings must accommodate. House Bill No. 8534, filed by Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda, meanwhile, explicitly prohibits charging telcos for provisioning services within properties.

“Globe is committed to working hand-in-hand with the government and the private sector to implement zero lease for telco infrastructure across the Philippines,” said Cu. “Our nation can unleash its digital growth potential by learning from successful examples in the region and enacting progressive policies.”

By eliminating unnecessary rental costs and promoting infrastructure sharing, Globe believes the Philippine telco industry can enhance competitiveness and funnel more resources into network upgrades and expansions.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.