Consumer group calls for suspension of telco lease fees, citing internet as basic necessity
A consumer group has urged the suspension of lease fees for telecommunication companies, arguing that internet connectivity is now as essential as water and electricity in the digital age.
In an official statement, Bantay Konsyumer, Kalsada, Kuryente (BK3) asserted that internet access should be treated on par with utilities, calling for it to be incorporated into building designs without additional leasing charges.
“We don’t need added expenses for basic utilities that will inevitably be passed on to consumers,” the group’s statement emphasized.
BK3 further emphasized that communication and digital connectivity should be recognized as fundamental human rights.
“This is crucial for our progress. We need to ensure that the internet is accessible and beneficial to every consumer and citizen,” BK3 asserted.
House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo previously advocated for zero lease fees for broadband installation, pointing out that numerous buildings in Metro Manila have already adopted this policy.
Presently, Makati City leads with 105 developers implementing lease-free broadband setups, followed by Taguig City with 91 buildings and Quezon City with 57 buildings.
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