NTC raids stores selling illegal satellite receivers

MANILA, Philippines - Operatives of the National Telecommunication Commission raided Tuesday nine stores in Sta. Cruz and Quiapo that were selling unregistered digital satellite receivers or set top boxes that illegally decrypt signals from Dream Satellite TV, a company owned by the Philippine Multi-media Systems, Inc. (PMSI).

A total of 321 direct-to-home (DTH) terminals valued at P4 million were confiscated from Xing Sheng Enterprises, Hua Yang Electronics, Heng Xing Ent, Hua Yang Electronics and Solar Commercial General Merchandizing Co.

In Quiapo, the combined NTC and police raiding teams raided Jimwell Electronic Center, Getz Sales Center Co., Milysa Electronics, and New AJC Aero Master Enterprises, all at Raon Shopping Center.

The NTC said those who trade in unregistered digital satellite receivers or set top boxes cost the national government P50 million to 100 million in unrealized revenue.

She said the NTC will file appropriate charges against the raided establishments, which face closure and a P5,000 fine per illegal terminal.

The NTC said the unauthorized access to Dream Satellite constitutes theft and infringes on the property rights of PMSI.

The NTC enjoined the public to purchase digital satellite receivers or set top boxes only from authorized dealers. The commission emphasized that these devices are subject to appropriate quality control and service warranty benefits for the protection of the buying public.