The Philippine National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has issued a Memorandum Circular signed on August 28, 2025 which takes effect 15 days after publication.

Key highlights of the circular include: 

1. 2G/3G Network Shutdown:

-All Public Telecommunications Entities (PTEs), including Globe and Smart, are required to implement an area-specific phased shutdown of 2G and 3G services.

-The nationwide switch-off must be completed no later than December 31, 2026.

2. The NTC will issue a separate guideline addressing the phased-out process for mobile devices and equipment affected by this regulation for Device Certification and Market Restrictions:

-Within 60 days after effectivity, NTC will no longer accept applications for Type Approval/Acceptance of devices with exclusive or primary 2G/3G capability.

-Devices previously certified as 2G/3G only will be tagged for phased deactivation in the NTC licensing database.

-NTC will coordinate with manufacturers, dealers, and vendors to prohibit the importation and market entry of 2G/3G-only devices.

Related authority link: https://ntc.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/MEMORANDUM_CIRCULAR/003-09-2025.pdf?appgw_azwaf_jsc=CR7nfHhIv9QYIKc706MsLnACj0_3iGo0hqA_-wWqrFY

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