NTC futher cuts call, text rates

The National Telecommunications Communications Commission (NTC) has lowered the interconnection rates for short messaging servicing (SMS) and mobile calls in a bid to offer more affordable services to the general public.

NTC commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba said the interconnection rate for mobile calls was slashed from P2.50 to P0.50 per minute. For text messaging, the interconnection rate was cut from P0.15 to P0.50 per minute.

“Network providers shall comply with the prescribed quality of service or service performance standards,” according to a memorandum from the NTC.

Network providers are given 10 days from the effectivity of the circular to comply.

The new interconnection rates will be imposed not later than 20 days from the effectivity of the circular.

The NTC said the lower rates are in line with Executive Order 546 Series of 1979 or the Public Telecommunication Policy Act of the Philippines.

The EO aims to reduce communication costs, maintain and foster fair competition in the telecommunications industry and make voice and SMS more affordable to the public.

Prior to the issuance of the memorandum, the interconnection rate for text was lowered from P0.35 to P0.15, while the rate for mobile call service was reduced from P4 to P2.50.