Definitions of Key Terms
- Public Repeater Network: Radio communication system offering repeater services to the public at Commission-authorized rates.
- Public Repeater Network Service: Service provided by an authorized PRN operator.
- Shared Repeater Service: Service where users share a common communication path.
- Trunked Repeater Service: Service where many subscribers share communication paths.
- Repeater Station: Fixed station retransmitting signals between mobile stations.
- Mobile, Portable, Porta-Mobile Stations: Various types of mobile radio stations defined by operation mode.
- Radio Station: Installation with transmitting/receiving equipment for communication.
- Franchise: Government grant of a special privilege.
- Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN): Commission-issued authority to operate public services.
- Commission: The National Telecommunications Commission.
Authorization, Permits, and Licenses
- Installation and operation of PRNs require both a Congressional franchise and CPCN issued by the Commission after due notice and hearing.
- Applicants must show sufficient capital, proof of economic viability, and legal and technical capability.
- CPCN grantees may operate Shared or Trunked Repeater Services and may offer portable, porta-mobile, and mobile stations.
- Permits required include:
- Permit to Purchase (before acquiring equipment)
- Permit to Possess and Construction Permit (before building repeater stations)
- Station License (before commencing operation)
- Transfers or assignments of permits and licenses require Commission approval.
- All stations must operate per issued licenses and certificates.
Technical Standards
- Frequencies assigned by the Commission in VHF (244.0-267.0 MHz) and UHF (487.5-511.7 MHz, 806-851 MHz) bands for repeater stations.
- Operators must maintain frequency tolerance as per International Radio Regulations.
- Power output should suffice for service area without causing harmful interference; the Commission may order adjustments.
Rate Regulation
- Charges to subscribers must be authorized by the Commission; unauthorized charges are prohibited.
Duties and Responsibilities
- PRNS operators must:
- Inform subscribers of relevant laws and regulations.
- Accept all qualified applications without discrimination.
- Obtain all necessary permits/licenses for subscriber stations.
- Operate within granted CPCN and licenses.
- Use and ensure use of only type-approved/accepted equipment.
- Submit monthly reports of facilities and subscribers.
- Maintain service quality and prevent harmful interference.
- Report subscriber discontinuation within 24 hours.
- Subscribers must:
- Use only authorized equipment.
- May provide own type-approved equipment.
- Surrender licenses upon subscription cancellation or termination.
Sanctions and Penalties
- Violators of the regulations face legal consequences.
- The Commission may revoke or cancel any certificate, permit, or license upon violations.
Fees and Charges
- All fees and charges must conform to the schedule set by the Commission.
Repeal and Effectivity
- Previously conflicting rules, circulars, memoranda, and orders are repealed.
- The Circular takes effect immediately and may be amended according to telecommunications advancements and conditions.