Definitions of Key Terms
- Radio Transmitter or Transceiver: Device for emitting/receiving radio signals.
- Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS): A satellite and radio-based communication system for distress alerting and search and rescue.
- Shore-based Maintenance Service Company: Entity engaged in repair, calibration, service, or maintenance of maritime radio and navigational equipment on Philippine GMDSS vessels.
- Accreditation: Official authorization granted by the Commission to allow a company to provide shore-based maintenance services.
Application and Permit Requirements
- Accreditation from the NTC is mandatory before contracting with ship operators.
- Applications must include required documentation as specified in the application form.
- Initial provisional permits last one year; regular permits valid up to three years after inspection.
- Permit renewal applications must be filed at least 60 days before expiration.
- Fees include PHP 900 per year plus a PHP 150 filing fee, subject to updates by circular.
- Accredited companies authorized to perform repair, calibration, service, and maintenance on Philippine GMDSS vessels.
Operation Guidelines for Accredited Companies
- Compliance with this Circular and applicable international/local radio laws is mandatory.
- Maintenance must meet technical standards as defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
- Permittees should engage in research and development to improve maintenance methods.
Required Diagnostic and Test Equipment
- Essential equipment includes frequency meters, RF power meters, digital multimeters, insulation meters, gravity meters, EPIRB program testers, frequency counters, modulation meters, oscilloscopes, signal generators, and reflectometers covering HF to UHF bands.
General Provisions and Restrictions
- Non-accredited entities cannot enter into contracts or advertise shore-based maintenance services for Philippine GMDSS vessels.
- Accredited companies must maintain spare parts inventories for all equipment types serviced.
- Importation of parts/components requires prior Commission authorization.
- Quality control facilities adhering to good engineering practices are required.
- Business premises must display clear signage indicating business name, services offered, permittee name, and address.
- NTC serves as mediator for contract disputes that cannot be amicably resolved.
Licensing Requirements for Personnel
- Technical staff responsible for repair and maintenance must hold valid 1st class Radiotelephone or Radiotelegraph certificates with Radio Electronic Certificates.
- Proof of training from equipment manufacturers is required.
- Shore-based companies must employ duly registered Electronic and Communications Engineers as per Department Order No. 88 (1972).
Reporting Obligations
- Accredited companies must submit monthly reports to the Commission detailing service contracts and maintenance activities within seven days after each month’s end.
Grounds for Suspension or Revocation of Permits
- Violations of this Circular, Radio Control Law, or other relevant laws.
- False statements in applications or reports.
- Non-compliance with permit conditions.
- Failure to amicably resolve disputes with contracted companies.
Procedures for Suspension or Revocation
- NTC must provide written notice of cause before suspension, revocation, or cancellation.
- Permittee has 15 days after notice receipt to file a written petition for hearing.
- Without petition, the permit action becomes final and executory.
Repealing Clause
- This Circular supersedes inconsistent provisions of prior Memorandum Circulars and rules.
Effectivity
- The Circular takes effect 30 days after publication as mandated by law.