The Philippines

Label should not only be indicated on the box, but also on the equipment whether physical label or e-label.

Label is not mandatory for SRDs, Label is only mandatory to PSTN or WWAN terminals.

Label not mandatory for Type Accepted (typically SRDs) only Type Approval (typically PSTN or WWAN terminals) is mandatory for labeling requirement.

Frequencies allowed in The Philippines

The 900 MHz band is used by many utilities, railroads, refiners, and other critical infrastructure operators for two-way voice communications.

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) lifted the ban on the 2.4 GHz band in 2003.

For a more detailed list of frequencies allowed contact CSIA.

Regulatory Updates For The Philippines

May 2024

Changes in Operating Parameters for Wireless Technologies

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) of the Philippines has issued Memorandum Circular No. 002-07-2024, dated July 5, 2024. This new circular amends Section 2 of Memorandum Circular No. 03-05-2007, introducing significant updates to the operating parameters for wireless technologies, specifically HIPERLANs and RLANs.

New Operating Parameters:

2400 – 2483.5 MHz: Maximum power of 100 mW eirp
5150 – 5350 MHz: Maximum power of 200 mW eirp
5470 – 5850 MHz: Maximum power of 250 mW eirp
5925 – 6425 MHz: Maximum power of 25 mW eirp (for indoor and outdoor use)
5925 – 6425 MHz: Maximum power of 250 mW eirp (use on unmanned aircraft systems/drones is prohibited)
17.1 – 17.3 GHz: Maximum power of 100 mW eirp (for indoor use only)

The updated regulations will take effect fifteen (15) days after their publication in a newspaper of general circulation. Compliance with these new technical parameters is mandatory for all relevant equipment and operations.

Key Differences from Previous Regulations:

Additional Frequency Bands: The new regulations introduce specific power limits for the 5925 – 6425 MHz and 17.1 – 17.3 GHz bands, which were either not covered or detailed in the previous regulations.
Use Restrictions: The new regulations explicitly prohibit the use of the 5925 – 6425 MHz band for unmanned aircraft systems/drones and clearly differentiate between indoor and outdoor use.
Regulatory Focus: The updated memorandum emphasizes adapting to technological advancements and ensuring efficient use of the radio spectrum, highlighting the need for a modernized regulatory framework.

Type Approval in The Philippines

NTC approval in the Philippines refers to certification or authorization issued by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC),

the government agency responsible for regulating and overseeing the telecommunications industry in the country.

The NTC is tasked with ensuring that telecommunications services, equipment, and technologies comply with the Philippines' legal and regulatory requirements.

Key Aspects of NTC Approval:

Telecommunications Equipment Approval

NTC approval is primarily required for telecommunications

equipment and devices that use radio frequencies. These can include products such as mobile phones, wireless routers, transmitters, radio devices, and other wireless communication equipment. The approval ensures that these devices meet the technical standards set by the NTC for safe and effective use in the country.

Compliance with Technical Standards

The NTC establishes and enforces technical standards for equipment that operates in the telecommunications and radio spectrum sectors. These standards ensure:

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): Devices must not cause harmful interference to other radio services or networks.
Frequency Band Compliance: Devices must operate within designated frequency bands approved by the NTC to avoid interference with existing communication services.
Safety and Reliability: The equipment must meet safety requirements to protect users and operators from electrical or other hazards.

Devices Requiring NTC Approval:

Mobile Phones and Smartphones

Devices that operate on cellular networks, including GSM, 3G, 4G, and 5G, must receive NTC certification before they can be legally used or sold in the Philippines.

Radio Equipment

Radio transmitters, receivers, walkie-talkies, amateur radios, and broadcasting equipment are required to obtain NTC approval.

Importation and Market Access:

Before devices can be sold, imported, or used in the Philippines, they must be tested for compliance with NTC regulations. The NTC's approval ensures that devices meet local requirements, making it illegal to import or distribute non-approved products.

Regulatory Compliance:

NTC approval ensures that products are compliant with the Philippine Radio Frequency Allocation Plan (RFAP) and other relevant national regulations.

This is crucial for ensuring that telecommunications services in the Philippines remain stable, interference-free, and well-managed.

Licensing:

Aside from type approval for devices, the NTC also regulates telecommunications operators and service providers. Companies wishing to operate mobile networks, internet services, or broadcast channels must obtain appropriate licenses from the NTC.

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NTC approval in The Philippines requires acceptable CE reports.
A local representative required. If the manufacturer does not have one, CSIA can provide this service.
Lead time is approximately 4-5 weeks from the time all documents have been collected.
The NTC type approval certificate is valid indefinitely.

Type Approval

The NTC's approval process for telecommunications equipment is often referred to as type approval. This process verifies that the equipment meets the technical specifications required to operate in the Philippine communications network without causing interference with other devices or systems.

Wireless Devices

This includes Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, and any equipment that operates using wireless technologies.

Satellite and Communication Devices

Equipment that connects to satellite networks or other specialized

communication infrastructure may need NTC certification.