The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) announced that 3G networks in the Philippines will be phased out by the end of September, with the ongoing shutdown of 2G networks moving in parallel. The initiative aims to curb illegal activities that exploit these older technologies.
In a press conference in Makati City on Friday night, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda confirmed that DITO Telecommunity and Globe Telecom have already shut down their 3G services, while Smart Communications is set to complete its phaseout before October.
“Why is that important? Kasi yung mga tinatawag nating IMSI catcher—the one that grabs your cellphone details and the one hackers and scammers use to fool you—will be reduced,” Aguda explained.
DITO currently has no 2G network, while both Globe and Smart are working with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and the DICT to dismantle remaining 2G operations.
Aguda expressed optimism that the reforms will improve digital safety ahead of the holiday season. “With this effort, we hope that by Christmas you can transact on the internet without fear, because it will be a bit cleaner,” he said.
Prior to addressing the media, Aguda, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) Executive Director Aboy Paraiso, and other officials met with representatives of telecom companies and social media platforms to secure cooperation in combating online harms.
These include online misinformation, sales of illegal goods, and the proliferation of child sexual abuse and exploitation materials.
Paraiso welcomed the swift collaboration. “Mas mabilis na kooperasyon, mabilis na responses—whether it comes to takedowns from social media platforms or the blocking from telcos,” he said, noting that compliance with lawful orders has also improved, particularly in blocking scam numbers and tracking mobile accounts linked to illegal activities.
