MANILA – Subdivisions and forthcoming housing projects will soon need to allocate space for information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure. This requirement comes after the proposal successfully passed the second reading in the House of Representatives.
Upcoming housing projects and subdivisions will soon need to allocate space for information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, following the advancement of a proposal through the second reading in the House of Representatives.
In Monday’s plenary session, House Bill 9870, also known as the Housing Development Digital Connectivity Act, received approval by voice voting from the chamber.
The proposed legislation is aimed at ensuring digital connectivity in urban areas and densely populated regions throughout the country. It requires all types of housing developments, including subdivisions, villages, and residential properties, to dedicate a portion of their open space for the installation of ICT infrastructure and related facilities.
This proposal intends to amend Presidential Decree No. 957, which currently mandates subdivision developers to allocate open space for parks, playgrounds, and recreational use.
Under PD 957, as amended by PD 1216, for subdivision projects covering one hectare or more, the owner or developer is required to set aside 30 percent of the gross area for open space.
Developers have the option to designate an area for ICT infrastructure from the net saleable lots outside the mandated 30 percent of the gross project area reserved for open space, which typically includes areas for parks, playgrounds, and recreational purposes.
The ICT provider can acquire this designated area for ICT infrastructure and facilities through either direct purchase at fair market value or a long-term lease agreement.
Any ICT infrastructure constructed within an existing subdivision must be non-exclusive and accessible for shared use by all ICT providers.
The bill outlines provisions for compensating the local government unit, homeowners’ association, developer, or private lot owner for the use of such open space.
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