The Struggle to Not Get a Philippine Ham Radio Call Sign

As an avid amateur radio operator and a first-time visitor to the Philippines, I was excited to explore the airwaves in a new country. To avoid the hassle of repeatedly applying for guest licenses on future trips, I decided to take the leap and apply for a local Philippine call sign during my 58-day stay.

The Plan: Seminar and Exam

To obtain a call sign in the Philippines, you must attend a seminar and pass an exam administered by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). Eager to get started, I joined the seminar, completed all the requirements, and gathered the necessary documents. Exams, as I was told, were held every Wednesday, so I was optimistic about making progress.

The Setback: Exams on Hold

When I approached the NTC to register for the exam, I encountered an unexpected roadblock. The NTC informed me that all exams had been on hold since December 2024 due to a pending memorandum. Adding to my frustration, I learned that in 2025, exams would only be held on Fridays—meaning my carefully laid plans were derailed by circumstances beyond my control.

Helpful Locals, Frustrating System

Despite the setback, I was fortunate to meet many helpful local amateur radio operators who assisted me with navigating the process. Their support was invaluable and a highlight of the experience. However, the realization of what obtaining a local call sign truly entailed left me disheartened.

Why I Lost Interest

To begin with, I would need to start with a Class C license, the entry-level license in the Philippines. As a holder of the highest amateur radio licenses in both Germany and the USA, I am used to unrestricted operating privileges. To reach the equivalent Class A level in the Philippines, I would need to first pass the Class B exam, then pass the Class A exam, which includes a Morse code test.

In contrast, the guest license for foreign Extra Class holders allows me to operate with a temporary Class A license (with a 100W power limit) without jumping through hoops.

The Costs

Another deterrent is the cost of obtaining temporary license. Here’s the breakdown taken from the PARA Website:

• Filing Fees:
  • Class A: ₱180
  • Class B: ₱192
  • Class C: ₱204
• Permit to Possess: ₱60 plus ₱50 per unit
• Notarial Fee: ₱120
• Documentary Stamp: ₱30
• Folder: ₱10
• PARA Service Charge: ₱300
• PARA Endorsement: ₱200
• PARA Membership Fee: ₱500 (or ₱5,000 for lifetime membership)

These fees add up, making it an expensive process—especially for someone who just wants to get on the air while on vacation.

Is It Worth It?

The Philippines’ licensing process for foreigners feels unnecessarily complicated and costly. While I understand the importance of ensuring operators meet standards, the system seems overly restrictive compared to neighboring countries, where foreign licenses are often recognized, and only local regulations need to be studied and passed.

Final Thoughts

While I cherish the connections I made with local operators and appreciate their kindness, I have decided against pursuing a Philippine call sign for now. Instead, I will likely go for a temporary licenses for a future trip. Other countries in the region offer far more accessible pathways for foreign operators, making them more appealing destinations for radio enthusiasts.