The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) officially mandates the phased deactivation of all 2G and 3G mobile networks throughout the country. All public telecommunications entities (PTEs) currently operating these legacy services must implement area-specific shutdowns, culminating in a full nationwide switch-off no later than 31 December 2026.
Timeline for 3G Network Deactivation
- Highly Urbanized Cities and Municipalities – Initial phase of shutdown
- First to Third Class Municipalities – Second phase of shutdown
- Remaining 3G Service Areas – Final phase of nationwide shutdown
A separate issuance will be released by the NTC providing detailed procedures for the phase-out of devices and equipment that rely solely on 2G or 3G technologies.
Device Certification and Market Entry
Cessation of Approvals: Within 60 days from the effectivity of this circular, the NTC will stop accepting applications for Type Approval and Type Acceptance Certificates for devices with exclusive or primary 2G/3G functionality.
Phased Deactivation: Devices certified as 2G/3G-only will be flagged in the NTC licensing database for scheduled deactivation.
Importation Ban: The entry and sale of 2G/3G-only devices in the market will be strictly prohibited.
Reallocation of Frequency Spectrum
Frequencies currently assigned for 3G services will be reallocated to support 4G, 5G, and emerging mobile technologies, subject to compliance with NTC’s existing permitting and licensing regulations.
This Memorandum Circular was signed on 28 August 2025 and will take effect 15 days after its publication.
