Rules out on re-allocation of digital TV frequency band

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has issued the rules and regulations on the re-allocation of the 470–512 Megahertz (MHz) band for digital terrestrial television broadcasting (DTTB) service.

In Memorandum Circular (MC) 0102-2018 dated Feb.2, the NTC said the rules and regulations were issued for the effective and smooth implementation of MC 04-06-2016 for the re-allocation of the 470-512 MHz band for DTTB.

Under the rules and regulations, all operating and duly authorized Mega Manila VHF (very high frequency) television networks are entitled to a channel assignment from Channels 14 to 20, provided they file their manifestation to convert their analog television service to DTTB and they undergo drawing of lots based on sequence of choice for channel assignment.

In case any of the VHF networks is not interested with its entitlement, the NTC would consider all operating and duly authorized Mega Manila UHF (ultra high frequency) TV networks that have filed requisite manifestation to convert their analog television service to DTTB.

Should there be available channels, the NTC will consider entities with pending petitions to be allowed to provide DTTB service in Mega Manila.

VHF television networks in Mega Manila will need to submit a notice of intent to participate in the assignment of Channels 14 to 20 within 10 days from receipt of notice from NTC on the effectivity of the rules and regulations.

Operating and duly authorized Mega Manila VHF televlsion networks that fail to submit the notice of intent would be deemed to have waived the opportunity to operate within the 470-512 MHz band.

After the notice of intent is received, the drawing of lots would be conducted for channel assignment.

The channel that is the first choice of only one network would automatically be assigned to that network.

In case two or more networks have the same first choice of channel, drawing of lots would be conducted and the winner of the draw would get the assignment.

After all participating Mega Manila VHF networks have been assigned channels, the networks would have to comply with the deposit requirement by issuing a check amounting to P9.517 million to the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters ng Pilipinas (KBP) no later than 10 days from date of assignment to be authorized to use the channels.

Should there be more qualified DTT Mega Manila applicants than the unassigned channels, the NTC will rank them based on legal, financial and technical capabilities. –