Protection for mobile phone subscribers sought

MANILA, Philippines - Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Jay Velasco is seeking ample protection for millions of mobile phone subscribers.

In Bill 6334 or the proposed Mobile Phone Consumer Empowerment Act, Velasco said cellular phone service providers “do not clearly and uniformly disclose to the customer the relevant terms and conditions, including charges, minutes, service plans, taxes and surcharges.”

“Such practice impedes the flow of basic information necessary for consumers to compare the cost of mobile telephone services offered by different carriers,” he said.

He said market competition could take place only if consumers have access to accurate information in a format they readily understand.

Bill 6334 would require mobile phone service providers to fully disclose the details of their contracts with subscribers, and to notify a subscriber in writing of a change in rates or terms of service at least 30 days before such change takes effect.

It would also allow a subscriber to terminate without penalty his service, provided that he does it 30 days after the execution of the contract.

Velasco said at present, mobile phone companies charge their clients termination fees, whether the service is ended a day or a year after such service was engaged.

He said the imposition of termination fees has no relation whatsoever to the cost incurred for the provision of mobile phone service.

His bill would stop the cellular phone service providers from collecting termination fees.

The subscriber would only pay for the service provided up to the time of termination.

If he returns any purchased or leased phone, he would be entitled to a pro-rated refund of any amount paid for such gadget.

The measure would task the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to issue rules on recognition by telecommunications companies of the rights of mobile phone subscribers.

Velasco said his proposal carries out the constitutional mandate to “protect consumers, shield them from deceptive, unfair and unconscionable acts and practices, and provide them information and education to facilitate sound choice and the proper exercise of their rights.”