THE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) recently started a series of initiatives that will address issues related to the sale of pre-registered subscriber identity module (SIM) cards and irregular form of assisted registration to enforce the provisions of Republic Act 11934, otherwise known as the SIM Registration Act.
In a statement, NTC said it convened a meeting with telcos and SIM distributors and dealers – the first in a series of initiatives it has planned aimed at fostering a better understanding among stakeholders regarding the legal obligations and penal provisions stipulated under the SIM Registration Act.
“The NTC is committed to ensuring the integrity of SIM registration processes across the telecommunications industry,” said Ella Blanca Lopez, NTC commissioner.
“Through these dialogues, we aim to clarify regulatory requirements and expectations while fostering cooperation among telcos, distributors and dealers to uphold the law,” Lopez added.
The law mandates strict adherence to guidelines governing the registration and distribution of SIM cards to enhance national security and protect consumers against misuse and fraudulent activities.
During the dialogue, representatives from the NTC underscored the importance of compliance with the SIM Registration Act, emphasizing the prohibition against the sale of pre-registered SIM cards and irregular form of assisted registration.
These practices not only violate regulatory norms, pose serious risks to public safety, but are also criminal offenses with a penalty of up to six years imprisonment or fine of up to P300,000 or both, upon conviction of the end-user.
Representatives from Smart Communications, DITO Telecommunity, Megasmart One, CommWorks, Oxford Distributors and Mobile First attended the initial meeting.
The meeting with Globe Telecom and its distributors is also set for this week, NTC added.
“These engagements with industry stakeholders are necessary to promote awareness and adherence to regulatory standards. These efforts are pivotal in safeguarding the interests of consumers and ensuring a secure telecommunications environment nationwide,” NTC said.
