Group calls for amendments to National Building Code

ADVOCACY group CitizenWatch Philippines on Wednesday urged the Senate to amend the National Building Code, arguing that broadband connectivity should be a mandatory standard in all new construction.

- RIZAL RAOUL REYES

Former Quezon City Rep. Christopher Belmonte, the co-convener of the group, said digital infrastructure provisions must be included into the Senate measure to be aligned with the government's initiatives for inclusive internet connectivity.

"We fully support efforts to modernize the National Building Code," Belmonte said. "But the pending Senate bill must go further. It must clearly require mandatory digital infrastructure provisions both in new and existing buildings. Otherwise, we are reforming for safety but ignoring connectivity, which is now just as essential."

Belmonte said internet access should be treated as a basic utility and be able to meet the needs of the digital environment.

"Internet connectivity is now an indispensable tool. It is a basic human right in a digital economy," he said. "A building without reliable internet and mobile signal is like a building with plumbing but no water supply. It limits opportunity."