Message from the Commissioner

These are interesting, challenging times for the National Telecommunications Commission. The entire world is moving forward at an accelerated rate: the boundaries of nations disappearing under globalization; the synergy of telecommunications, broadcast, Internet, radio, and other related disciplines; the revolutionary advent of technology that redefines the very essence of verbal and written communications; and the long-term, vital consequences of these changes on the Philippines and our people. This Annual Report will show a Commission that is more willing and which has prepared itself for the tasks ahead. To foster economic growth and the development of the industries, we have supported and sustained their beneficial competition inder our close supervision. This has been done through the implementation of regulatory provisions. This year, the end result has been the promotion of investments, a level playing field, minimized delays and bureaucratic barriers, and the buttressing of our dropping economy by the telecom industry. Technological and educational upgrading is another vital factor. Throughout the regions, the NTC has been keeping up in step with the latest industry innovations, whether these are equipment, computer hardware and software, or personnel training. Via the wonders of the digitral age, the Commission has also established linkages with influential, important partners here as well as overseas. Finally, we are proud to to have bought the services right where they belong: to the consumers. Projects like OSPAC will ensure their protection; grievances and complaints will be heard and forwarded to the concerned parties, and abuse of services will no longer be tolerated. The welfare of the consumers is at the heart of the NTC mission and vision, for it is critical to the prosperity and success of the industries and our own national good. In the next few years, we will continue to strive towards greater accessibility and price affordability to be able to sustain growth and global competitiveness and for the industry. It is our goal to make telecommunication services and prices as competitive as in our neighboring countries. This will mean cheaper, easier access to telecom facilities that we hope would spur e-commerce in the country and sustain economic growth. The work ahead will by no means be easy, but it can be accoplished. We urge our fellow workers in the NTC and the concerned industries to band together for these common goals. ELISEO M. RIO JR.