By PMT News Desk

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Maranao lawmakers in the Bangsamoro Parliament have introduced a measure to enhance telecommunications services within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

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Parliament Bill No. 285 seeks to grant Bangsamoro Radio Suwara Meranaw a 25-year regional franchise to construct, install, establish, operate, and maintain telecommunication services in the region.

The bill, filed by Members of Parliament Ali Solaiman, Amroussi Macatanong, Said Shiek, Basit Abbas, Marjanie Macasalong, and Abdullah Macapaar, all hailing from Lanao del Sur, underscores the need for improved telecommunications infrastructure in BARMM.

If enacted, PB No. 285 will authorize Bangsamoro Radio Suwara Meranaw to operate both wired and wireless telecommunication services commercially.

It is expected to boost the growth, modernization, and development of telecommunications in the region.

Under the proposed measure, Bangsamoro Radio Suwara Meranaw is required to obtain the necessary permits and licenses from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for constructing and operating its stations and facilities.

Additionally, the company must secure a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Bangsamoro Telecommunications Commission (BTC) before commencing any construction or operation activities.

The bill also includes several regulatory conditions. Bangsamoro Radio Suwara Meranaw is prohibited from selling, leasing, transferring, granting, or assigning the franchise to any third party.

The charges and rates for their telecommunications services must receive BTC approval, except for non-regulated services, which can have flat or measured rates.

To maintain the effectiveness of its franchise, Bangsamoro Radio Suwara Meranaw must begin operations within three years of obtaining the BTC permit and within five years of the bill’s enactment. Continuous operation for at least two years is also mandated.

The Bangsamoro Radio Suwara Meranaw must submit an annual report to Parliament containing its compliance with the terms and conditions of the franchise and its operations.

The bill mandates that Bangsamoro Radio Suwara Meranaw submit an annual report to the Bangsamoro Parliament, detailing its compliance with the franchise terms and its operational activities.

The Bangsamoro Organic Law empowers the Bangsamoro government to grant regional franchises, licenses and permits to telecommunication utilities whose frequencies are confined to and whose main offices are located within the region. (BTA Parliament/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)