ASEP continues the search for Digicel’s replacement

Only one company submitted the documentation required for participation tender for sale property of Digicel.

According to the Public Service Administration (ASEP), pre-qualification was attended by only General International Telecom Panama.

The institution points out that by opening the process, it wants to include a third mobile operator in the telecommunications sector, with a guarantee of market competition.

“What the law establishes is that in the next 30 days we must announce a new act. This is the procedure we will follow until we carry out what is the very act of formal bidding and the appropriate award,” explained Armando. Fuentes, ASEP administrator.

According to Fuentes, what is being offered is radio spectrum, throughput, which established prices. Digicel has allocated 50 megahertz, different bands, which have fixed speeds.

Assets also need to be considered from Digicelthe keys to the company’s operations.

The Digecel Group started operating in the Republic of Panama in 2008 for the mobile phone market, but on April 6, 2022, it requested its voluntary liquidation before civil courts.

ASEP appointed Alex Anel Arroyo for him case manager to ensure customer service.

“We will continue to work, guaranteeing the operation of services and work for Digicel staff,” Arroyo said.

The comptroller admitted that the loss of customers skyrocketed after the liquidation was announced. When concessions for communication services are awarded, current customers of Digicel it will automatically go to that new operator.