The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is proposing new rules for businesses importing and selling used and refurbished mobile phones, tablets, and similar devices in the Philippines, GMA News reported Wednesday, citing the regulator.
The proposed memorandum circular would cover importation, dealership, accreditation, labeling, and sales. NTC said the rules are intended to address illegally acquired or stolen devices, as well as tampered and defective units being sold in the market.
Under the proposal, only properly documented and legitimately sourced devices that have received the required NTC type approval would be allowed for importation.
Authorized refurbished-device dealers would also have to grade and clearly label their units before selling them. The devices would be boxed and identified under the authorized seller’s brand and come with a one-year repair or replacement warranty.
NTC held a public hearing on the proposal on September 23, attended by public telecommunications entities, prospective applicants, and other stakeholders. The regulator said initial written comments raised issues involving intellectual property and other rights reserved by device manufacturers.
Businesses importing, selling, or trading used or refurbished devices without the required NTC authorization could face administrative sanctions under the proposed rules.
NTC already regulates businesses involved in the purchase and resale of mobile phones. Memorandum Circular No. 08-08-2004A requires mobile phone dealers and retailer/resellers to obtain the appropriate authorization and prohibits them from acquiring or selling phones from unauthorized or illegal sources.
The new proposal would establish more specific requirements for refurbished and used devices, including their importation, grading, labeling, and warranty.
The regulator is accepting comments, recommendations, and proposed revisions to the draft until October 1, 2026. Submissions may be sent to commissioner@ntc.gov.ph, with legal@ntc.gov.ph copied.