by Roy Mabasa
President Duterte yesterday instructed the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to fast-track the entry of the third telecom player to the Philippines to “foster competition in the market.”
“I want this implemented during the first quarter of 2018,” Duterte said in a statement.
The President also directed the NTC to start putting together the terms of reference for the bidding of all remaining telco frequencies.
To further hasten the process, Duterte instructed all national and regional government agencies and local governments to issue the required permits within seven days upon complete submission of requirements.
He said the order also applies to incumbent telecom players.
“If the permits are not issued within seven days, the permits are deemed approved,” Duterte said.
The President also warned the courts not to cause further delay in the application of the third telco player which he said is a “matter of national interest.”
“I do not want the courts to interfere and prolong this process. Do not issue any TROs or injunctions. This is a matter of national interest for the benefit of the public,” he said.