NEDA bid to scrap telco franchise nixed

THERE is “absolutely no way” that Congress will give up its power to closely supervise the telecommunications sector, which is heavily imbued with public interest, House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan said.

In a statement, 4Ps party-list Rep. Libanan thumbed down the proposal of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) to scrap the legislative franchise requirement for telecommunications companies.

“We are determined to exercise our oversight powers to ensure the supply of dependable and affordable telecommunications services, including internet services, to the public at all times,” Libanan said.

At present, every telecommunications company must obtain a franchise from Congress, which also enjoys the power to amend, extend, or revoke every franchise.

Libanan maintained that Philippine radio airwaves belong to the State and to the public.

The State, through Congress and the National Telecommunications Commission, merely assigns certain frequencies to telecommunications firms, subject to user fees, according to Libanan.

Libanan, a lawyer, previously served as chairperson of the House committee on justice when he was representative of Eastern Samar’s lone congressional district.

As the sitting minority leader, Libanan is an ex-officio voting member of the House committee on legislative franchises.

“Let’s face it. Telecommunications is an extremely capital-intensive business that requires massive investments over several years. But this should not discourage resolute new players who have the wherewithal to compete,” Libanan said.

Libanan cited the case of Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and DITO Telecommunity Corp., which recently forged a landmark agreement that will allow them to share select terrestrial and submarine fiber optic cable assets so they can quickly expand coverage of their telecommunications services.

In a recent policy note, NEDA had pressed for the removal of the legislative franchise requirement for telecommunications firms to attract more players and foster stronger competition that could improve services.

“The dual licensing process could have a disproportionate negative impact on these small players, potentially influencing market entry dynamics,” NEDA said. With Rio Araja