Solon calls for inquiry into planned Nextel buyout

The House committee on transportation and communications through its chairman Rep. Jacinto Paras favors an inquiry into the planned Nextel buy-out.

Paras said Congress will question the planned buy-out of Nextel on constitutional grounds.

He added that he had on several occasions called the attention of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on the operation of Nextel since there were complaints on its franchise and license to operate.

"My office has been receiving complaints on Nextel and I have been calling the attention of the NTC to look into this matter. I think it’s about time that Congress will look closely on this matter because it’s affecting public interest," Paras explained.

Based on the record, Nextel license said it will operate as "trunk radio" however, it also provides cellphone services which is not licensed to do.

By allowing Nextel to operate cell services, Paras noted that NTC may be liable for neglect or deliberate dereliction of duty.

"Congress inquiry will also look into NTC’s possible connivance with Nextel since the NTC allowed Nextel to operate as cell services for more than three years thereby placing public interest and welfare in danger," Paras said.

Earlier, the Citizen’s Movement for Protectionism and Reform (CMPR) deplored Nextel’s planned disposition of its shares, saying it is a ploy by its American owners to avoid pending lawsuits for alleged violation of the Anti-dummy Law, the Public Service Act and the Philippine Constitution.

Rolando Padrelan, CMPR secretary general, said their group has received reliable information that negotiations for Nextel’s ownership and management control are nearing the final stage with the Marsman/Drysdale Group and a certain Mel Velarde who claims to have close ties with the Carpio Villaraza law firm.

Padrelan warns that other big corporations and big businessmen with strong ties to the Arroyo administration are interested in acquiring Nextel.

"Those who interested to get Nextel should not only think twice but many times since it will only give them headaches. Don’t be a part of a fraud and scam. Protect the interest of the Filipino consumer and the public," Padrelan added.

Marsman/Drysdale Corp. has issued a denial through press releases saying it is not part of the planned buy-out of Nextel.