THE Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) said that the newly launched implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Executive Order No. 32 (EO 32), which streamlines the permit process for telecommunications infrastructure, will apply to all pending applications for permits.
“Just as the blueprint is essential for constructing a building, the IRR serves as our guide translating the principles of EO 32 into actionable steps and practical procedures,” ARTA Director General Ernesto V. Perez said at the launch and signing of the IRR on Monday.
He said that the IRR will apply to all current applications for permits, licenses, certifications and authorizations, including those submitted by public telecommunication entities, cable TV operators, VAS providers, ICT technology providers, independent tower companies and distribution utilities.
According to Mr. Perez, the IRR will also apply to all National Government agencies’ instrumentalities which include government-owned and -controlled corporations and local government units involved in the issuance of permits required for the construction or repair of passive telecommunications tower infrastructure.
Rule 3 of the IRR provides for a single application form for construction-related permits. The documents required include property documents, technical documents, a clearance for the structure’s proposed height, validated affidavits of undertaking, and Homeowners Association clearance.
“Building permit applications with complete documentary requirements must be processed by the various offices within the one-stop shop construction permit unit within a non-extendible period of seven working days,” Mr. Perez said.
The IRR also requires local government units to implement a one-time assessment of building-related fees and charges. It also sets the processing times for permits applied for.
Mr. Perez said that if a proposed structure is to be built outside critical areas as defined by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the applicant is not required to submit a height clearance permit and instead submit a CAAP-validated affidavit of undertaking which the agency is required to issue within two working days.
For clearances required from homeowners associations, the officers of the duly registered association are given 10 working days to act on the application.
Mr. Perez said that if this period lapses, upon complaint and due verification, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development can order the homeowners association to issue the clearance, which is deemed automatically approved. — Justine Irish D. Tabile
