New EO boosts telco, ISP access to satellites

TELECOMMUNICATION companies and internet service providers (ISP) can now tap satellites to boost the online access of their customers under a new Executive order (EO) issued by President Duterte.

Duterte said the measure aims to improve the internet connectivity for Filipinos, which he said is a “powerful driver of economic and social change.”

Under EO No. 127, telcos, ISPs and their value-added service (VAS) provider, which have authorization of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), will be allowed to access all satellite systems here and abroad for their internet services.

“Broadcast service providers may also be allowed to directly access satellite systems subject to NTC rules, regulations, and authorizations,” Duterte said.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and NTC will come out with the necessary implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the implementation of the new policy.

DICT, through the NTC, was also tasked to secure “orbital slots” for Philippine satellites.  The President issued his new three-page EO, which amended EO No. 467 (series of 1998), last Wednesday.

It will take effect once it is published in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Duterte committed to improve local telecommunication and internet services before he ends his term next year.