Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 307)
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is vested with the functions to grant permits for the use of radio frequencies for wireless telephone and telegraph systems and radio communication systems.
The Executive Order notes the international approval of 3G standards technology by the International Telecommunication Union and highlights the demand for 3G spectrum frequencies, which are part of the radio frequencies to be allocated through the policy.
The Executive Order institutionalizes the use of auctions as the method for allocating the radio frequency spectrum, including 3G spectrum and other frequencies not yet allocated as of the order’s effectivity, to promote transparency, fairness, and economic efficiency.
The Joint Committee consists of three members: the Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission, one member from the Department of Transportation and Communication, and one from the Economic Coordinating Council.
The Joint Committee is tasked to promulgate bidding guidelines, manage and supervise the auction process, formulate rules and regulations for frequency allocation, contract advisers with expertise, and if necessary, create a working committee to assist its functions.
The Joint Committee must promulgate bidding guidelines within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of the Executive Order.
Bidding guidelines must cover the designation of actual frequencies to be auctioned, terms and conditions of licenses including service obligations and license duration, indicative or floor prices for licenses, and instructions on the use or transfer of auction proceeds.
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), the Economic Coordinating Council (ECC), and other appropriate government instrumentalities are directed to implement the Executive Order.
All executive orders, administrative orders, and other executive issuances including NTC Memorandum Circulars inconsistent with this Executive Order are repealed, modified, or amended accordingly.