The National Telecommunications Commission-Northern Mindanao (NTC-10) has closed at least 17 radio stations in the region found to be operating without permits.

The cease and desist order came from the NTC central office.

Of the 17, six were operating in Bukidnon; five in Misamis Occidental; three in Misamis Oriental; two in Lanao del Norte; and one in Cagayan de Oro City.

During a surprise inspection, NTC-10 found out that the radio stations were operating without a license, permit to construct radio station, and permit to purchase broadcast equipment.

Some radio stations said they have already secured a legislative franchise, but NTC-10 said this is not enough as they must secure the necessary permits and authority from the NTC.

“Having a franchise issued by the Congress, dili pa siya sufficient to secure an authority kay nakabutang man sa Section 3 didto nga the franchisee shall secure the necessary permits and authority from the National Telecommunications Commission,” NTC-10 Director, Teodoro Buenavista, said.

The broadcast equipment confiscated from the illegal radio stations are now in the custody of NTC-10 while investigation is ongoing.

The owners and management of the radio stations were also given 14 days to submit their response to the show cause order.

NTC-10 added that more radio stations in the region will be issued with a show cause order and cease and desist order for a similar offense.

NTC-10 also noticed that more radio stations usually open during election season.

“Naa gyud surge in the number of illegal stations during sa political exercise season. Modaghan unya paghuman mokalit ra pud og wala,” Buenavista said.