Formation of Private Radio Users Associations (PRUAs) and Radio Frequency Pool
- Licensed radio users are required to form or join existing PRUAs.
- PRUAs share assigned radio frequencies through a pooled system.
- Radio units must be converted to shared channel trunking system.
- Costs of conversion borne by the licensed radio users.
- Conversion can be done by licensed radio dealers, suppliers, or manufacturers.
Amnesty and Penalties for Illegal Radio Users
- Illegal users may voluntarily join PRUAs by paying a one-time amnesty fee of PhP1,000 per radio unit.
- Submission of certification from PRUA President confirming membership is mandatory.
- Apprehended illegal users who acknowledge violation and join PRUAs must pay PhP3,000 penalty plus PhP1,000 amnesty fee per radio unit.
Licensing Application Requirements
- Applicants for radio station licenses must submit all existing required documents.
- Additionally, certificate of membership from PRUA President must be submitted.
- Radio equipment must be purchased only from NTC-authorized dealers, suppliers, or manufacturers.
Operation and Management of Shared Channel Trunking Network (SCTN)
- SCTN ownership lies with the PRUAs.
- A duly authorized and franchised trunk radio network (TRN) operator manages operation and maintenance.
- Management fees are subject to negotiation between TRN operator and PRUAs.
Licensing of Radio Stations
- Radio station licenses issued in the name of the radio user.
- Name of authorized TRN operator indicated in parentheses.
- Annual license fee is PhP250 per radio station paid to the Commission.
Spectrum User Fees
- TRN operators must pay spectrum user fees to the Commission as per Memorandum Circular 10-10-97.
Transitional Provisions
- Licensed private radio users whose equipment cannot be converted to shared channel trunking must comply within three years from effectivity.
Effectivity and Supersession of Prior Rules
- Circular takes effect fifteen days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.
- Requires submission of three certified true copies to the UP Law Center.
- Modifies, amends, or supersedes previous inconsistent circulars, orders, or memoranda.