NTC ensures compliance with Marcos' free calls order for Middle East OFWs

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on Monday ensured the swift and full compliance of telecommunication companies to the directive of President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. to provide free communication services for overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East.

In a press statement, NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez said the agency is ready to support the implementation of the President’s order, which seeks to help affected OFWs stay connected with their families without worrying about expensive international call, text, and data charges.

“As the regulatory body overseeing the telecommunications sector, the NTC commends Globe Telecom, PLDT/Smart, and DITO Telecommunity for their swift and compassionate response to the President’s directive,'' Lopez said.

''Through these efforts, we want to ensure that our kababayans can remain connected with their families, offer comfort to one another, and confirm their safety without additional financial burden,” she added.

Lopez further urged telcos to launch free call stations at select mall-based business centers, allowing families to place calls to their loved ones in the Middle East.

The country’s three telco providers have already activated their Libreng Tawag service in response to the President's directive to assist the OFWs and their families. 

Such connectivity is key to ensuring they can stay in touch and offer each other emotional support during a challenging time, Lopez said.

“The Commission stands ready to monitor implementation of the President’s directive, facilitate any necessary coordination, and ensure that all OFWs and their families benefit fully from this vital support initiative, underscoring the government’s unwavering priority of their welfare and peace of mind,” Lopez said. —LDF, GMA Integrated News