NTC to issue rules on importation, sale of refurbished mobile phones

MANILA, Philippines — The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) conducted a public hearing on the proposed memorandum circular governing the importation, dealership, accreditation, labeling and sale of refurbished and used mobile phones, tablets and other customer premises equipment.

Held at the NTC central office on Sept. 23, the public hearing presented the proposal to allow the importation and sale of NTC-type approved and untampered refurbished mobile phones, tablets and similar devices which shall be boxed and identified under the brand of the authorized person or entity granted by the NTC and sold with a one year repair or replacement warranty.

Only properly documented and legitimately sourced mobile phones and devices that are type-approved shall be allowed to be imported by the NTC. All units shall be properly labeled, graded and clearly warranted by the authorized refurbished mobile phone dealer before being allowed by the NTC to be sold to the public.

Public telecommunications entities, prospective applicants and other stakeholders attended the public hearing. Written comments have been received by the NTC, with initial comments touching on protection of intellectual property and other reserved rights by manufacturers.

The regulation is being considered to stop the unauthorized sale of illegally acquired or stolen mobile phones and the unscrupulous trade of tampered and defective mobile phones in the market.

All unlicensed entities that are found importing, selling or trading in used or refurbished mobile phones, tablets and other similar devices shall be administratively sanctioned by the NTC.

The initiative forms part of the NTC’s mandate to regulate telecommunication equipment in a transparent, responsible and accountable manner to protect the interest of the Filipino consumer.