Converge ICT Solutions proposes the use of shared underground pipes for telco cables as it is said to help lower the capital costs for internet service providers.
In a statement, Converge said that underground pipes ensure that telco infrastructure is already in place whenever a new road is being constructed.
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To make this possible, Converge said that it will take multi-stakeholder coordination between ICT players, utility companies, and the government.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is already doing an underground cable system project in the NCR. It involves the relocation of traditional overhead utility lines on major roads and highways and putting them underground.
This project covers EDSA, Circumferential Road 5, and Radial Road 10.
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According to Jesus C. Romero, Converge Chief Operations Officer, the joint-use method will allow the government to install underground pipes during the construction of public works.
Romero said that the underground cables can be placed in expressways as the submarine cables can be costly. The Converge executive said that they are “willing to pay” for their share.
As a result, Converge believes that it “will translate to lower capital costs” and will help increase access to broadband infrastructure, especially for rural areas.
Other utility service providers already said that they are willing to shift to an underground cable system as long as the government gives them subsidies and adequate planning for the infra.
I totally agree with what Converge said.