The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is coming down hard on pre-registered SIM cards and improperly assisted registration.
The regulator made known its displeasure at the turn of events when it recently met with the telcos, SIM distributors and dealers as part of an ongoing effort enforcing the provisions of Republic Act 11934 or the SIM Registration Act.
The NTC sought to address issues related to the sale of pre-registered SIM cards and irregular forms of assisted registration.
The meeting marked the first in a series of NTC initiatives fostering a better understanding among stakeholders on the legal obligations and penal provisions stipulated under the SIM Registration Act.
The Act mandates strict adherence to guidelines on the registration and distribution of SIM cards to enhance national security and protect consumers against misuse and fraudulent activities.
During the dialogue, NTC representatives underscored the importance of compliance with the SIM Registration Act, emphasizing the prohibition against the sale of pre-registered SIM cards and irregular forms of assisted registration.
These practices not only violate regulatory norms and a serious risk to public safety but are also criminal offenses with a penalty of up to six years imprisonment or fine up to P300,000.00), or both, upon conviction of the end-user.
“The NTC is committed to ensuring the integrity of SIM registration processes across the telecommunications industry,” NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca B. Lopez. Lopez said,
“Through these dialogues, we aim to clarify regulatory requirements and expectations while fostering cooperation among telcos, distributors and dealers to uphold the law,” she added.
The initial meeting was attended by representatives from Smart Communications, DITO Telecommunity, Megasmart One, CommWorks, Inc., Oxford Distributors, Inc. and Mobile First. The meeting with Globe Telecom, Inc. and its distributors is also set for this week.
“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,” the NTC said.
