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IT&E seeks to intervene in GTA’s application to do business here
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Posted on Oct 13 2011
By Moneth Deposa
Reporter
Reporter
Telecommunication company IT&E wants to intervene in the application of a Guam-based competitor that is seeking permission from the Commonwealth Public Utilities Commission to set up shop in the CNMI.
In a Sept. 27 letter to PUC chair Viola Alepuyo, IT&E counsel Victorino DLG. Torres said that IT&E wants to intervene in the application of GTA Services LLC to do business in the Commonwealth and asks that it be allowed to participate in the process.
“We would like to preserve our rights to be an active participant in all proceedings relating to and concerning GTA’s application and petitions. As an active participant, we would like the full opportunity to make certain procedural and substantive objections, present and cross-examine witnesses, and other necessary evidence. It is our intention to be part of this process so that the commission will be fully advised of all positions,” Torres stated in his letter.
GTA Services LLC filed its application with the CPUC in March this year to become a competitive local exchange carrier on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.
Because IT&E reportedly failed to get the documents for its review for the scheduled hearing this week, Torres urged the commission to delay making a decision on the matter until it submits its comments.
In an earlier interview with Daniel J. Tydingco, executive vice-president external and legal affairs of GTA, the company hopes for a favorable response to its application.
Once CUC approves their application, Tydingco said that GTA will immediately fulfill all the technical requirements so they could immediately provide services to CNMI residents. Among these is the establishment of an office on Saipan. Among the services that will be offered are Internet and telephone services.
Given the ties between the CNMI and Guam, Tydingco said he is confident in the success of their planned investment.
Tydingco refused to disclose the amount GTA plans to invest in the CNMI pending the commission’s approval.
