3G phaseout by end-September, 2G shutdown underway to curb scams

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) announced that 3G networks in the country will be fully phased out by the end of September, while the shutdown of 2G networks is ongoing to prevent their use in scams and other illegal activities.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said in a press briefing Friday night that DITO Telecommunity and Globe Telecom have already decommissioned their 3G networks, while Smart Communications is set to complete its phaseout by month’s end.

Aguda explained that the move would help reduce cybercrimes using IMSI catchers—devices that intercept cellphone details for fraudulent purposes.

On 2G networks, he said DITO has none, while both Globe and Smart are coordinating with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and DICT for a complete shutdown.

“Everybody is cooperating. And ito yung effort namin na pagdating ng Pasko, sana you can transact without fear on the internet,” Aguda said.

Earlier, Aguda and Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) Executive Director Aboy Paraiso met with telcos and social media platforms to strengthen coordination in addressing online harms such as scams, misinformation, illegal sales, and child sexual abuse materials.

Paraiso welcomed the telcos’ and platforms’ commitment, citing faster cooperation in blocking scam numbers, removing harmful content, and complying with lawful orders.