BACOLOD City – The City Council has moved forward with a proposed ordinance aimed at establishing underground cabling systems, approving the measure in its first reading last week.
Authored by Councilor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, the ordinance sets forth guidelines for the installation, maintenance, and management of underground utilities to enhance public safety and city development.
Under the Local Government Code of 1991, the Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) holds the authority to implement ordinances that improve public safety and contribute to the socio-economic growth of the area.
Puentevella emphasized that the initiative is designed to mitigate risks such as accidental contact with electrical wires, fire incidents from electrical overloading, and utility theft.
The proposed underground cabling system is part of the city government’s broader efforts to modernize infrastructure and respond more effectively to various calamities, minimizing disruptions to both residents and the local economy.
The ordinance mandates compliance from power, telecommunications, and cable companies with several national codes, including the Philippines Electrical and Electronics Codes, as well as the National Building Code of the Philippines.
The councilor also outlined plans to involve stakeholders in the utility sector to ensure the transition minimizes financial impact, suggesting a phased implementation of the underground cabling. Additionally, the proposal includes partnering with private sectors to leverage their expertise and resources in realizing this project./PN
