Congress to probe illegal cable TV connections

The House of Representatives is set to look into the massive economic losses, estimated at around P7 billion, caused by widespread illegal cable television (CATV) connections.

Catanduanes Rep. Joseph Santiago, chairman of the House committee on information and communications technology, has filed a bill proposing to “criminalize” all unlawful CATV connections. This means that CATV signal thieves would actually face jail terms.

“There is no question that extensive illicit CATV connections not only cost private service providers staggering financial losses, but also deprive the government billions of pesos in tax revenues,” Santiago said.

The Philippine Cable TV Association (PCTVA) estimates that its members have been losing at least P7 billion in combined subscription fee income as a result of rampant signal piracy.