RESIDENTS of subdivisions in Molino, Bacoor City and in Cerritos Heights appealed to authorities to allow the entry of other internet service providers in their enclaves.

The Cerritos Heights Homeowners Association Inc. (CHHAI) said that Planet Cable, which is owned by the subdivision's developer, is the lone fixed internet provider in Cerritos Heights Phases 1 and 2, Cerritos Terraces, and Cerritos Hills Phases 1, 2, and 3.

The residents made the appeal after the subdivision's security guards prevented Globe Telecom personnel from setting up an internet connection in the area last Tuesday.

'This week, a team of armed guards allegedly sent by Camella's subsidiary practically shooed the Globe contractors away, telling them that they need a permit from Camella before they could proceed,' CHHAI president Toteng Tanglao said.

'The guards said they will not honor the notice to proceed issued by the HOA to Globe,' he added.

Tanglao stressed the need for faster internet amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

'We need a reliable internet yet Camella is reportedly choosing to harass telcos from servicing more people,' he added.

'We wish to assert our right to enjoy the benefits of competition, especially in getting the best possible internet provider. The need for reliable connectivity is even more pronounced today, especially as the uncertainty over the Covid-19 pandemic is forcing everyone to adapt to the new normal. This means work-from-home is no longer an option but a requirement in order to keep jobs. Students will also transition to online learning because this is now part of the Philippine education system,' the group said.

The CHHAI earlier asked the Philippine Competition Commission to act on the alleged monopoly of Planet Cable inside the subdivision.

The group has filed a petition seeking to allow other internet service providers to operate inside their subdivision and a 'back up' in case Planet Cable's connection malfunctions or encounters problems.