NSA, DND ‘Studying’ Issue on Huawei Android Restrictions

President Rodrigo Duterte will wait for recommendations from National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. and the defense department on matters concerning Google’s decision to bar Chinese smartphone company Huawei from some updates to the Android operating system.

“I suppose the Department of National Defense as well as the National Security Adviser are studying that matter,” said Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo in a Palace briefing.

“And the President will be waiting for whatever recommendation they have on that,” he added.

These restrictions came after U.S. President Donald Trump placed the Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. on a trade blacklist which prevents access to future versions of the Android operating system.

Google is one of the first American companies to comply with Trump’s order.

Huawei will be barred from purchasing U.S. licensing part and technology without special permission.

The U.S. Commerce Department granted Huawei a 90-day relief for transactions necessary to maintain existing networks and minimize disruptions to its customers.

Despite this development, the Philippines’ major telecommunications companies assured that customers will not yet be affected by the U.S. restriction.

In a statement, Philippine Long-Distance Telephone Inc. and Smart vowed to work closely with Huawei to address concerns regarding firmware and software updates for their devices.

Globe Telecom Inc., in a separate statement, assured Huawei will continue to provide their devices with security updates and after-sales services. (PNA)