Duterte signs EO for inclusive access to satellite services

President Duterte has recently signed an Executive Order which allows telecommunications companies and ISPs to have direct access to all satellite systems, so they can offer better internet services and coverage in the country.

Executive Order No. 127 amends Executive Order No. 467 (s. 1998), which provides the policy guidelines and regulations with regards to the operation and use of international satellite telecommunications facilities and services in the country.

Under Section 1 of the new EO, it states that “enfranchised telecommunications entities duly authorized by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and Value-Added Service (VAS) Providers and Internet Service Providers (ISP) duly registered with the NTC shall be allowed direct access to all satellite systems, whether fixed or mobile, international or domestic, to build and operate broadband facilities to offer internet services. Broadcast service providers may also be allowed to directly access satellite systems subject to NTC rules, regulations and authorizations.”

The EO also states under Section 2 that the NTC “shall update its regulations and expedite its administrative processes to enable VAS providers and ISPs to directly access, utilize, own and operate facilities for internet access service using satellite technologies such as but not limited to, Very Small Aperture Terminals, Broadband Global Area Network and other similar technologies, for all segments of the broadband network. It is understood, however, that VAS providers and ISPs shall comply with existing policies and requirements concerning the registration of VAS and ISP offerings and submission of their schedule of rates.”

Under Section 4, “the DICT, through the NTC, shall pursue policies to secure necessary orbital slots for Philippine satellite(s).”

The DICT, in coordination with the NTC, shall issue the necessary rules and regulations for the implementation of the national policy for inclusive access to satellite services.

“The government recognizes that universal access to fast and reliable Internet services is vital in order for the country to join the ranks of developed economies due to the Internet’s transformative impact on e-government and the delivery of basic services, the elimination of red tape, freedom of information, disaster preparedness, public safety, readiness for climate change, education for all, and inclusive growth,” the new EO states.