Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 436)
The primary policy objective is to recognize the vital role of communication and information in nation-building by providing wider access to diverse sources of news, information, education, sports, and entertainment through cable television systems, thereby supporting socio-economic growth and enhancing the cultural refinement of the Filipino citizenry.
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is vested solely with the regulation and supervision of the cable television industry in the Philippines.
No. Cable television operators may carry advertisements and similar paid segments and charge reasonable fees; however, they cannot insert advertisements in the programs they carry or retransmit without the consent of the program provider concerned to avoid infringing on broadcast television markets.
Only persons, associations, partnerships, corporations, or cooperatives granted a Provisional Authority or Certificate of Authority by the National Telecommunications Commission may install, operate, and maintain a cable television system or render cable television service within a service area.
No. Local exchange operators, broadcasters, and other video programming providers must secure specific permits, licenses, or authority from the NTC before operating cable television systems or any service involving delivery of television programs by wire, cable, or wireless transmission systems.
The NTC may grant authority if (a) the prior operator has not substantially complied with the terms and conditions without sufficient justification; (b) the cable television service provided is grossly inadequate; and (c) the grant will not cause ruinous competition detrimental to the existing operator and investment policies.
Yes. A cable television operator may lease or sub-lease any excess capacity of its cable television system to a third party but only with prior approval from the National Telecommunications Commission.
Receipt and distribution of encoded satellite program signals are limited strictly to those with written authority granted by the satellite programmer.
The NTC is directed to ensure proper implementation of the Order, adopt necessary rules and regulations, and after due notice and hearing, impose penalties including administrative fines, and other sanctions allowed by law for any violations of the provisions or applicable regulations.
Executive Order No. 436 took effect immediately upon approval on September 9, 1997.