DICT can extend deadline to register SIMs —ex-NTC exec

The deadline for the registration of SIM cards can be extended by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), a former executive of the telecommunications regulator said Wednesday.

During state-run PTV’s public briefing, former National Telecommunications Commission deputy commissioner and current NTC consultant Edgardo Cabarios said those who have existing SIMs have 180 days from the effectivity of the SIM Card Registration Act to register their numbers, or until April 26, 2022.

The NTC, on Monday, released the implementing rules and regulations of the Sim Card Registration Act, which was signed into law by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in October.

By December 27, telcos will start selling SIMs in deactivated mode and open online portals for registration. 

“Now, kung inaakala po ng DICT na iyong 180 days ay kulang ay pwede pong i-order ng DICT na i-extend iyon for another 120 days,” Cabarios said.

(Now, if the DICT believes the 180 days is not enough, it can order to extend the deadline for another 120 days.)

“So, mahabang panahon po iyan para ho ma-accommodate, mai-register iyong existing—mga 150 million po iyan—na prepaid SIMs na hindi nakarehistro,” he added.

(So, it is a long period to accommodate or register about 150 million prepaid SIMs which are not yet registered.)

The former NTC executive said the law does not limit the number of SIMs an individual can register.

“Puwedeng magparehistro maski na ilang SIMs ang gusto mong iparehistro,” he said.

(You can register as many SIMs as you want.)

The law mandates all public telecommunications entities (PTEs) or direct sellers of SIM cards to require users to present a valid identification document with a photo upon purchase.

PTEs are also required to establish their own registration platform, and submit a verified list of their authorized dealers and agents across the country to the NTC, along with an updated list every quarter.

Under the IRR, end users are also required to immediately report any change in the information supplied in their applications for registration and any instances of stolen SIMs.

In case of the death of the end user, the immediate family or relatives of the end user are required to report this to the respective PTEs, where they will file for any activation or deactivation moving forward.

PTEs are also required to deactivate SIM cards used for fraudulent text or calls upon due investigation. — BM, GMA Integrated News