Declaration of Policy
- Recognizes the importance of private sector and enterprise.
- Aims to protect Cable Television and Cable Internet industries from unauthorized signal pilferage.
Definition of Terms
- Cable Television (CATV) Service: transmission/delivery of video and audio signals for a fee via fiber optics, coaxial cable, or other means.
- Cable Internet Service: transmission/delivery of electronic signals for internet access via CATV systems/networks.
- Cable Television (CATV) System/Network: facility for transmitting/delivering CATV service.
- Cable Internet System/Network: facility for transmitting/delivering Cable Internet service.
- CATV Service Provider: person/entity authorized under law to install, operate, and provide CATV service.
- Cable Internet Service Provider: person/entity legally registered to provide internet via CATV transmission systems.
Prohibited Acts
- Unauthorized interception or reception of CATV or Cable Internet signals by tapping or connecting to networks without provider authorization.
- Recording, reproducing, distributing, importing or selling intercepted CATV or Cable Internet signals commercially without consent.
- Using or receiving benefits from illegally intercepted signals knowingly.
- Maliciously damaging, destroying, or removing facilities or accessories related to authorized CATV or Cable Internet services.
Penalties
- Imprisonment from 2 to 5 years and/or a fine between Fifty Thousand to One Hundred Thousand pesos.
- If the offender is a corporation or association, officers directly involved shall be held liable.
Information Dissemination
- The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) must conduct a public information campaign about this Act within 60 days from its effectivity.
Rules and Regulations
- NTC shall, within 60 days after public hearings (which start within 30 working days of effectivity), issue implementing rules in consultation with CATV and Cable Internet providers and other affected parties.
Separability Clause
- If any provision is declared invalid or unconstitutional, the other provisions remain effective and valid.
Repealing Clause
- All laws or issuances inconsistent with this Act are repealed, modified, or amended accordingly.
Effectivity Clause
- Takes effect 15 days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation.