Philippines to Phase Out 2G and 3G Networks by End of 2026

The Philippine National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has issued Memorandum Circular No. 003-09-2025, signed on August 28, 2025, which will take effect 15 days after publication.

Under the circular, all public telecommunications entities, including Globe and Smart, are required to implement an area-specific phased shutdown of 2G and 3G services, with a complete nationwide switch-off by December 31, 2026.

Additionally, within 60 days of effectivity, the NTC will no longer accept applications for Type Approval/Acceptance of devices with exclusive or primary 2G/3G capability. Existing 2G/3G-only devices will be phased out from the NTC licensing database, and importation or sale of such devices will be prohibited.

A separate guideline will be released to outline the phase-out process for affected mobile devices and equipment.

BACL is here to support you through these regulatory changes. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact sales@baclcorp.com.