NTC orders regional offices to aid NDRRMC, LGUs during Holy Week

The National Telecommunications Commission has ordered its regional units to be on full alert to ensure uninterrupted telecommunications services amid the expected volume of travelers during the Holy Week break.

In a memorandum issued March 28, the NTC told its regional directors to extend assistance to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and local government units (LGUs) as public service in observance of the Holy Week.

The latest order, it said, is part of the agency’s mandate to regulate the use of radios.

The NTC said all its regional directors shall coordinate with the NDRRMC, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils, Civic Action Groups (CAGs), and Amateur Radio Groups (ARGs) “that will render Holy Week 2023 public assistance within their respective areas of jurisdiction.”

Regional heads were also directed to engage with radio, television, and cable TV stations and operators for the proper and timely dissemination of related information.

“Further, all regional directors shall determine any assistance that the commission may provide, such as issuance of temporary permits and licenses necessary to lend assistance and ensure the safety of our kababayans who will be traveling to various parts of the country,” the NTC said.

Regional offices were, likewise, ordered to monitor the operations of CAGs and ARGs in their areas of jurisdiction and submit an updated report. — BM, GMA Integrated News