- What is a repeater/signal booster and when are they considered illegal?
A repeater or signal booster is a device that boosts the signal from the cell tower. It works by receiving the signal outside, amplifying it and rebroadcasting it in an area. It also amplifies the signal from the cell phone and sends it back to the cell tower. It has 3 components:
*Actual equipment may vary.
Repeaters are considered illegal when they are imported into the country without permit and are unauthorized for use by the NTC.
Under NTC Memorandum Order No. 01-02-2013, the sale, purchase, importation, possession or use of cellular mobile repeaters and portable cell sites are illegal. Only licensed CMTS operators, the NDRRRMC and other government agencies involved in national security or safety, authorized by NTC, are authorized to purchase, import, possess and use such devices.
- Does Globe sell repeaters?
We don't sell repeaters or signal boosters as these are prohibited under NTC Memorandum Order No. 01-02-2013.
- How do I know if there's an illegal repeater in my community and how will it affect me?
If there's an illegal repeater or signal booster in your area, you may experience slow or failed connections, dropped calls and voice quality problems even if your cell phone signal bar is okay.
- I'd like to find out more about illegal repeaters. Where can I get more info about it?
You can check out this video for more information on illegal repeaters.
- I have weak signal and instead of using a repeater/signal booster, how can Globe help me on this?
You may reach us through the Help section in GlobeOne so we can look into your network situation and provide you with possible options. From your GlobeOne dashboard, tap Help, select the account you need help with, and choose "Report connection issues" to raise your concern. A Globe representative will contact you within the next 48 hours.
For Platinum customers, you may reach out to Thea, your Digital Assistant, at glbe.co/thea-gp.
- What will happen if someone is identified as the owner and user of an illegal repeater/signal booster?
Globe conducts routine scanning for these illegal devices. If one of these scans shows an identified user, Globe will provide the results to the NTC for appropriate action.
An NTC representative shall then visit the location and advise the owner to turn off and dismantle the repeater. If the owner voluntarily turns off and dismantles the repeater, Globe shall not pursue any case against them. If the owner fails to comply, the NTC will issue a Show Cause order to compel the surrender of the repeater by the owner.
According to NTC Memorandum Order No. 01-02-2013, the sale, purchase, importation, possession, or use of cellular mobile repeaters and portable cell sites is illegal. Based on the Public Service Act, the use and operation of unauthorized repeaters and its operation is punishable under the existing Philippine laws.
Globe network representatives may also visit identified owners of these illegal devices to educate them about their harmful effects on the community and provide the necessary options to eliminate the need for one. Other possible solutions will also be discussed with the owner of illegal repeaters.
During these visits, Globe representative/s will only facilitate education outside the premises and WILL NOT:
- Request or gather copies of any documents, such as IDs, bank and credit card details, OTP, and other sensitive information from the owner
- Collect or accept money /payment /donation /gift
- Enter the household to respect the owner's privacy
- Provide false information or promises and refer to appropriate channels for any aftersales concerns
- Use personal numbers or email addresses for any transaction
- What can I do to help eliminate the use and distribution of illegal repeaters/signal boosters?
If you suspect illegal repeater use or sale, please report it to us, with the following helpful information, through this form.
- Photos of the suspected antenna
- Name of the building or establishment
- Complete address
- Name of owner (if possible)
Once your report is received, we will have a team investigate and together with NTC, hold a discussion or negotiation with the owner to shut down the illegal repeater.
