Aspiring 3rd telco player won’t impede in gov’t selection process

NOW Telecom Co. Inc. on Wednesday clarified that it has no intention of stopping the government bidding for the selection process of a third telco.

“What we are asking from the court is for the court to issue an order asking the NTC (National Telecommunications Commission ) to stop the implementation of certain provisions that we are questioning,” Atty. Aldrich Fitz U. Dy of NOW Telecom told reporters after the hearing before the Manila City Regional Trial Court Branch 42.

READ: Aspiring 3rd telco balks at financial requirements, sues NTC

NOW Telecom is questioning key financial requirements that the NTC has included for aspiring third telco participants. The telecom company is referring to the imposition of participation security, performance security, the appeal fee as well as the requirement that the roll out plan be submitted 90 days after the selection of a new major player.

The Manila Court already denied the bid of NOW Telecom to issue a restraining order against the said financial requirements but NOW remains optimistic.

READ: Now Telecom gets franchise extension until 2043

“The court is still receiving evidence. So, we are hopeful that this is the avenue for us to be able to present evidence in support of the writ of preliminary injunction,” he said.

Dy pointed out that they are still willing to post the participation and performance securities as well as the appeal fee. But they want it deposited before the court.

“So that if there is going to be any issue on whether it should be confiscated or not, at least we have a neutral forum and we are entitled to be heard before the bond or security is forfeited,” Dy said.

During Wednesday’s hearing, NOW wrapped up its presentation of evidence and it will be the NTC’s turn to present its evidence on Friday, Oct. 26. /jpv

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