Regulatory Compliance News

Philippines Authorizes Lower 6 GHz Band for Wi-Fi 6E Deployments

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) of the Philippines issued Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 002-07-2024, updating the technical parameters and spectrum allocations for Short Range Devices (SRD) operating within the 5925–6425 MHz frequency band. The regulatory amendment formally opens the lower 6 GHz spectrum to support next-generation Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 applications across the country. By making 500 MHz of additional spectrum available, the NTC aims to alleviate congestion in traditional 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, enabling higher data throughput and lower latency for enterprise and residential wireless networks.

Under the operational conditions defined in MC No. 002-07-2024, low-power indoor (LPI) access points and client devices are authorized to operate with maximum Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (E.I.R.P.) limits up to 250 mW, alongside a maximum power spectral density of 10 dBm/MHz. For outdoor deployments, Very Low Power (VLP) devices are capped at a maximum E.I.R.P. of 25 mW and a power spectral density of -1 dBm/MHz to prevent harmful interference with primary incumbent fixed services. The circular maintains explicit operational restrictions, strictly prohibiting the installation or operation of 6 GHz Wi-Fi equipment on board aircraft, maritime vessels, or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drones).

The opening of the 5925–6425 MHz band directly updates type approval procedures managed by the NTC's Equipment Standards and Inspection Division. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and local distributors seeking to import, sell, or deploy Wi-Fi 6E hardware in the Philippines must obtain NTC Equipment Conformity / Type Acceptance Certification. Technical submission files must include accredited laboratory test reports demonstrating compliance with the newly established power caps, frequency boundaries, and operational constraints prior to commercial market entry.