‘One-pole policy’ seen to eradicate spaghetti wires

Local

THE so-called spaghetti wires, a tangled mess of overhead wires, has long been a familiar sight in Cebu City. A new ordinance aims to change that.

Councilor Jerry Guardo has introduced a “one-pole policy” ordinance, aiming to declutter utility lines and enhance public safety.

The proposal seeks to consolidate multiple utility poles into a single structure per location while enforcing strict guidelines on height, placement, and load capacity.

It also mandates the removal of dead wires and unused cables to prevent hazards.

During a council's session, Guardo called for a public hearing on March 19. If passed, the ordinance will roll out in phases, giving utility providers, including power, telecommunications, and cable TV companies, three years to comply.

To reinforce safety, the City will install vertical clearance limiters on major roads.

Exemptions apply to poles that cannot bear additional electrical load, those at critical intersections where transfers are impractical, and sub-transmission poles protected under Republic Act 11361, the Anti-Obstruction of Power Lines Act.

Companies failing to meet compliance deadlines will first receive a warning before incurring penalties of P300 per pole per day.

The technical infrastructure committee will conduct quarterly audits to ensure adherence.

Cebu City’s proposal follows a similar initiative in the City of Naga, southern Cebu.

Last February 7, the city launched its single-pole policy under City Ordinance 2024-45, which mandates the consolidation of electricity, telecommunications, and water pipelines onto shared poles.

Mayor Valdemar Chiong emphasized that the project is not just about aesthetics but also about safety and efficiency, reducing risks for pedestrians, motorists, and utility workers.

Barangay Langtad has been designated as the pilot site for the program.(MyTVCebu)