Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 59)
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has the authority to expedite the interconnection of all NTC authorized public telecommunications carriers.
Interconnection means the linkage, by wire, radio, satellite, or other means, of two or more existing telecommunications carriers or operators with one another for the purpose of allowing or enabling subscribers of one carrier to access or reach subscribers of the other carriers.
Interconnection between NTC authorized public telecommunications carriers is compulsory under Executive Order No. 59.
Interconnection shall be established and maintained at points of connection, preferably at the local exchanges level and at the junction side of trunk exchanges, with sufficient capacity and number to meet all reasonable traffic demands within a reasonable time frame.
Yes, interconnection shall permit customers the freedom of choice on whose system their call is routed regardless of which system provides the exchange line connecting to the local exchange, initially through distinct carrier access codes and ultimately through equal access pre-programmed options.
If parties fail to agree within 90 days from notice, the NTC shall determine the terms and conditions necessary to effect a workable and equitable interconnection and traffic settlement upon application of any party involved.
Yes, interconnection must permit re-routing of calls from an international gateway operator rendered inoperative to another international gateway operator not affected, especially in cases like strikes, lock-outs, disasters, or calamities.
Technical rules should conform with relevant international telecommunications standards (CCITT and ITU). Traffic settlement rules consider types of interconnection, volume and distance of traffic, and equitable cost and revenue sharing, including subsidies for universal service obligations as approved by the NTC.
Penalties include administrative fines and sanctions, suspension of pending and future permits and licenses, directives to financial institutions to withhold loans, disqualification of employees or officers from NTC-regulated entities, and suspension of authorized rates without disrupting public service.