CEBU City Councilor Jerry Guardo has proposed the one-pole policy ordinance to streamline the installation of utility poles and address safety concerns posed by tangled cables, often referred to as “spaghetti wires.”
The draft ordinance seeks to consolidate multiple poles into a single pole per location and mandates utility companies — including power, telecommunications, and cable television providers — to adhere to strict guidelines regarding pole placement, height and load capacity. Additionally, it requires the removal of dead wires and unused cables to prevent accidents.
During the City Council’s session on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, Guardo called for a public hearing on March 19. If approved, the ordinance will be implemented in phases, allowing companies three years to comply.
The City will also install vertical clearance limiters on key roads to enhance safety. Exemptions apply to poles that cannot accommodate additional electrical equipment, those located at critical intersections where transfers are difficult and sub-transmission poles covered by Republic Act 11361, known as the Anti-Obstruction of Power Lines Act.
Non-compliant utility firms will receive a warning letter and face a fine of P300 per pole per day for violations beyond the prescribed compliance period. The technical infrastructure committee will conduct quarterly audits.
Underground cabling project
Meanwhile, Guardo announced that Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has approved Fibernet Konstrukt Corp. to lead a pilot underground cabling project at no cost to the City.
The first phase will begin in March, covering the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu, City Hall, and South Road Properties in the downtown area.
A horizontal directional drilling machine will be used to lay cables underground, a process expected to take two months.
Other pilot areas include P. Burgos St., M.C. Briones St., Osmeña Blvd., and D. Jakosalem St. / EHP