THE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on Tuesday said its proposed rules on the sale and importation of refurbished mobile devices would protect consumers without banning the secondhand market.
“The public can still buy and sell these gadgets [or trade devices among themselves],” NTC Deputy Commissioner Alvin Blanco said, provided the transactions do not involve commercial quantities.
The proposed rules aim to give consumers safer, affordable options, including properly refurbished 4G- and 5G-capable devices and laptops.
Under the proposal, commercial sales of refurbished devices would be limited to licensed dealers. Units must be legitimately sourced, compatible with Philippine mobile networks, properly sanitized, graded according to condition and fully functional.
Devices must also carry a one-year repair or replacement warranty. These safeguards seek to protect buyers from smuggled, stolen, unsafe or improperly refurbished units.
The NTC said that requirements, including minimum capitalization, would apply only to applicants for dealer permits covering used, reconditioned or refurbished mobile devices.
The capitalization requirement is intended to ensure that importers and dealers sell properly refurbished units approved by the NTC and have the financial capacity to honor warranties.
The proposed rules would also establish procedures for disposing of and recycling devices no longer fit for use.
Following a public consultation, the NTC said it is reviewing stakeholder comments to refine the draft and address consumer protection and industry concerns.
