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NTC meets with telcos, SIM distributors, dealers to enforce SIM Registration Act provisions
NTC meets with telcos, SIM distributors, dealers to enforce SIM Registration Act provisions
By Sonny Daanoy
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) hosted a meeting with telecommunications companies, Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) distributors, and dealers, as part of its ongoing efforts to enforce the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 11934, otherwise known as the SIM Registration Act.
"This meeting marks the first in a series of initiatives planned by the NTC aimed at fostering a better understanding among stakeholders regarding the legal obligations and penal provisions stipulated under the SIM Registration Act," NTC said in a statement on Thursday, July 18.
The commission also pointed out that the dialogue, which occurred on July 17, aimed at addressing issues related to the sale of pre-registered SIM cards and irregular forms of assisted registration.
"The NTC is committed to ensuring the integrity of SIM registration processes across the telecommunications industry," NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca B. Lopez said.
“Through these dialogues, we aim to clarify regulatory requirements and expectations while fostering cooperation among telcos, distributors and dealers to uphold the law,” she explained.
“These engagements with industry stakeholders are necessary to promote awareness and adherence to regulatory standards. These efforts are pivotal in safeguarding the interests of consumers and ensuring a secure telecommunications environment nationwide,” NTC said.
RA 11934
The SIM Registration Act enforces strict guidelines for the registration and distribution of SIM cards to bolster national security and safeguard consumers from misuse and fraudulent activities.
In a recent discussion, representatives from the NTC highlighted the critical need for compliance with the SIM Registration Act.
They stressed the prohibition of selling pre-registered SIM cards and warned against irregular assisted registration practices.
These practices not only violate regulatory norms and pose serious risks to public safety but are also criminal offenses.
Upon conviction, end-users could face penalties of up to six years imprisonment, a fine of up to P300,000, or both.
The initial meeting was attended by representatives from NTC, Smart Communications, DITO Telecommunity, Megasmart One, CommWorks, Inc., Oxford Distributors, Inc., and Mobile First.
Meanwhile, a meeting with Globe Telecom, Inc. and its distributors is also set for this week.