The city government signed on Dec. 1 a memorandum of agreement with ADvan Tech Solutions-JV, Inc. for the installation of underground fiber optic network backbone.
This is in line with Baguio’s SMART City vision where technology is used to aid in solving problems and bring better and more efficient service to the public.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong, representing the city government and Ares Panguito, representing the Quezon city-based corporation, signed the MOA with Rep. Mark Go, Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan, several councilors, other officials and guests as witnesses.
The company is engaged in the development of artificial intelligence system line apparatuses and general electrical lighting fixtures as well as IT services, consulting and systems integration.
Under the agreement, ADvan Tech shall build, construct, and provide the city a fiber optic cable network backbone by horizontal direct drilling, based on a submitted route plan to the city government.
The city, on the other hand, shall provide the needed permits, including personnel for coordination purposes.
The city will also create a special committee, which will be tasked to facilitate the implementation of the MOA.
“All costs and expenses, including any and all taxes or regulatory fees, in connection with the respective obligations of the parties shall be for the account of ADvan Tech,” the MOA stated.
“ADvan Tech shall turnover one unit sub-duct with 78 core Fiber Optic Cable to the Baguio City government within 30 days after completion of the project.”
The MOA stated that out that the underground conduit infrastructure shall be part of the city’s “One Canal Policy” for IT and telecommunication purposes only.
Earlier, the city council passed Resolution 125, s. 2020, authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement with ADvan Tech for the fiber optic cable installation and upgrading of facilities with no cost to the city government. – Gaby B. Keith
