PCC, NTC sign pact to promote fair competition in data transmission industry

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) have signed a pact to promote fair competition and regulatory coordination in the data transmission industry. 

In a statement on Friday, the PCC said it inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the NTC, which was signed by PCC chairperson Michael Aguinaldo and NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez.

The MOA was forged pursuant to Section 18 of Republic Act No. 12234, otherwise known as the Konektadong Pinoy Act (KPA), which mandates the PCC and NTC to develop interagency cooperation mechanisms, including information-sharing tools, to ensure effective enforcement and uphold the principles of fair competition in the data transmission industry.

“This partnership with the NTC is a crucial step toward building a competitive and inclusive data transmission landscape. By working together, we can safeguard the sector from the dangers of those who would seek to damage or monopolize telecommunications to the detriment of consumers. The PCC remains committed to supporting the implementation of the law through technical assistance, joint enforcement, and policy coordination,” said Aguinaldo.

Lopez, for her part, said, “We are committed to fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory practices across the industry.”

“This agreement sets the stage for strong interagency collaboration and responsible data sharing, enabling us to fulfill our mandates and better serve Filipino consumers,” added the NTC chief.

Under the agreement, the PCC and NTC will collaborate on joint market monitoring, policy development, enforcement actions, and capacity-building initiatives. 

The agreement also establishes protocols for information exchange, coordination on merger reviews and investigations, and the creation of joint task forces when necessary.

The PCC added that it continues to play a key role in the drafting of the law’s implementing rules and regulations, working closely with the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Economy, Planning and Development, NTC, and other stakeholders.—LDF, GMA Integrated News