Section 12Sec./Art. 12

Non-exclusivity of Franchise; Interpretation of Franchise.

The franchise granted under this Act is not exclusive and shall not prevent the grant of similar franchises to other qualified persons or entities:Provided, however,That the telecommunications lines which shall be installed by virtue of a subsequent franchise shall be so placed as not to impair the efficient and effective operation of the telecommunications systems which shall have been installed under this franchise and actually in existence at the time of the granting of said subsequent franchise:Provided, further,That the telecommunications lines installed by virtue of this franchise for the provision of a telephone service or the installation, operation and maintenance of a telecommunications system under this franchise shall be so placed as not to impair the efficient and effective operation of such telephone service or telecommunications systems:Provided, finally, That if any subsequent franchise for telecommunications services is awarded or granted by the Congress of the Philippines with terms, privileges and conditions more favorable and beneficial than those contained in this Act, then the same privileges or advantages shall, ipso facto, accrue to the herein grantee and be deemed part of this Act.