Philippine Call Sign

Roger M. Nabinger
Aredn
Philippine Call Sign

Getting a Philippine Amateur Radio Call Sign: My Journey

If you’re interested in becoming an amateur radio operator in the Philippines, you’re probably wondering what the steps and requirements are to obtain a call sign. As someone planning to visit the Philippines again soon, I want to share the process of getting an Amateur Radio Station License (ARSL) or a Radio Amateur Operator Certificate (RAOC) from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the agency responsible for regulating radio communications in the country.

My plan is to take the Class C exam during my vacation to the Philippines. Having a local call sign will reduce the hassle of applying for a temporary call sign each time I visit, as well as registering radio equipment every time.

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide based on what I’ve learned so far.

Steps to Get a Philippine Amateur Radio License

1. Decide Your License Class

The Philippines offers four different classes of amateur radio licenses, each with its own privileges and requirements:

  • Class A (Extra Class):
    This is the highest license level, allowing operation on all amateur bands and modes. You must pass a 5 words per minute (WPM) Morse code test and a written exam covering elements 8, 9, and 10. You also need registered radio equipment. The call sign prefix for this class is 4F or DU.

  • Class B (General Class):
    This class allows you to operate on most amateur bands and modes. To qualify, you need to pass a written exam covering elements 5, 6, and 7. Radio equipment registration is required. The call sign prefix is DV.

  • Class C (Technician Class):
    This is the license I plan to get. It allows you to operate on several amateur bands, though with limited privileges compared to Class B and A. You’ll need to pass a written exam covering elements 2, 3, and 4, and you must register your radio equipment. The call sign prefix for this class is DW.

  • Class D (Foundation Class):
    This is the entry-level license, allowing operation on the VHF band (144-146 MHz) only. The exam covers element 2. No radio equipment registration is required, and the call sign prefix is DY.

2. Study for the Written Exam

The written exams are based on the NTC syllabus, which can be downloaded from their website or from the Philippine Amateur Radio Association (PARA) website. The PARA is the national organization of amateur radio operators in the Philippines and offers a wealth of resources to help you prepare. They also conduct seminars and orientations for aspiring hams.

3. Attend a Seminar or Orientation

Before taking the exam, it’s a good idea to attend a seminar or orientation conducted by PARA or an NTC-recognized amateur radio club. These events cover essential topics like:

  • Amateur radio regulations and rules.
  • Ethics and etiquette.
  • Basic operating skills.

After completing the seminar, you’ll receive a certificate of attendance and an exam application form.

4. File Your Exam Application

To apply for the exam, file your exam application form with the NTC office in your region. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A fee of ₱50.
  • Two passport-sized photos.

For convenience, you can also ask your club or PARA to consolidate your application with other applicants.

5. Take the Licensing Exam

Exams are typically scheduled:

  • Every Wednesday, 8 AM - 10 AM, at the NTC NCR office.
  • Once or twice per year at NTC regional offices.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on the elements relevant to your license class. For Class C, the exam will cover elements 2, 3, and 4.

6. Get Your Exam Results

Once you’ve taken the exam, wait for the results, which will be posted on the NTC website or announced by your club. If you pass, you will receive your RAOC (if no registered equipment) or ARSL (with registered equipment). The certificate is valid for three years and must be renewed by paying a fee.

7. Get Your Philippine Call Sign

Once you receive your RAOC or ARSL, you’ll be issued a unique call sign based on your license class. For Class C, your call sign will begin with DW.

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8. Enjoy Your New Call Sign!

With your local call sign, you’ll no longer need to apply for a temporary one each time you visit the Philippines. This will simplify your paperwork and make operating your amateur radio equipment a breeze. You can now join the amateur radio community in the Philippines, participate in nets, contests, and other activities.

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By following these steps, I’ll be on track to obtaining my Philippine call sign and being fully licensed for my next trip. I’m looking forward to joining the vibrant ham community in the country and enjoying the privileges of having a local call sign!

73!