Law Summary
Policy Objective and Rationale
- Universal access to fast and reliable internet is prioritized to aid governmental efficiency, public safety, education, disaster preparedness, and inclusive growth.
- Acquisition and utilization of satellite connectivity for internet services by providers is allowed and classified as value-added services under RA No. 10929.
- The President holds control and is mandated to faithfully execute laws affecting the ICT sector.
Amendments to Executive Order No. 467 (1998)
Section 1 - Policy and Regulation
- Merges and amends Sections 1(a) and 1(b) of EO No. 467.
- Telecommunications entities authorized by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), along with Value-Added Service (VAS) Providers and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) registered with the NTC, are allowed direct access to all satellite systems (fixed/mobile, international/domestic).
- Broadcast service providers may also access satellites subject to NTC rules and authorizations.
- Existing sub-paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) are renumbered accordingly.
Section 2 - Access to Satellite-Based Technology
- NTC tasked to update regulations and expedite administrative processes to facilitate VAS and ISP access, ownership, and operation of satellite technology facilities such as Very Small Aperture Terminals and Broadband Global Area Network.
- VAS providers and ISPs must still comply with registration policies and rate submissions.
Section 3 - Definition of Terms
- Provides clear definitions, notably "Direct Access," permitting authorized dealings between entities and satellite system providers as defined by the NTC.
Section 4 - Policy Review
- The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in consultation with relevant sectors, is mandated to regularly review the policy’s effectiveness and provide recommendations to the Office of the President.
Securing Philippine Orbital Slots
- DICT, through the NTC, will pursue policies to secure orbital slots necessary for Philippine satellites, ensuring national interests in space-based communication.
Implementation and Enforcement
- DICT and NTC are directed to promulgate rules and regulations within 30 days to implement inclusive satellite service access policies.
- Unaffected provisions of EO No. 467 remain in force unless amended.
- Conflicting orders, rules, and regulations are repealed, amended, or modified as necessary.
- Contains a separability clause ensuring the validity of unaffected provisions if any part is declared unconstitutional.
Effectivity
- The Order takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
This comprehensive legal framework advances the expansion and inclusiveness of satellite-based internet services in the Philippines, promoting equitable access to essential ICT resources to foster socio-economic development and national competitiveness.