| Philippine Amateur Radio Association | |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | PARA |
| Formation | 1932[1] |
| Type | non-profit organization |
| Purpose/focus | None |
| Headquarters | Boy Scouts of the Philippines Center, 181 Natividad Almeda-Lopez Sts, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines |
| Location | City of Manila, Philippines |
| Region served | Philippines |
| Membership | 1180 (Regular), 53 (Life Members), 27 (Lifetime International Associate Members) |
| Official languages | English |
| President | Ramon Anquilan, DU1UGZ |
| Affiliations | International Amateur Radio Union |
| Staff | 2 |
| Website | www.para.org.ph |
The Philippine Amateur Radio Association (PARA) is a national non-profit organization for amateur radio enthusiasts in the Philippines. Key membership benefits of PARA include the sponsorship of amateur radio operating awards and radio contests, and a QSL bureau for those members who regularly communicate with amateur radio operators in other countries. PARA represents the interests of Filipino Amateur Radio Operators/Enthusiast before the national and international telecommunications regulatory authorities.[1] PARA is the national member society representing the Philippines in the International Amateur Radio Union.[2]
PARA is the recognized national umbrella association for the amateur radio service in the Philippines. The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) - the country's telecommunications regulatory authority - issued Memorandum Circular No. 05-06-85 which says:
"In compliance to Ministry Circular No. 82-077, dated 20 October 1982, the Philippine Amateur Radio Association (PARA) as governed by the new PARA By Laws registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, dated 08 May 1985, is hereby recognized by the National Telecommunications Commission as the national amateur radio organization. As such, PARA shall represent the Philippines Amateurs in all conferences, either local or international and with the end in view of fostering cordial relationship and efficient coordination between radio amateurs and the government.
To hasten the normal operation of the organization and the accreditation of other amateur radio clubs as required under NTC Memorandum Circular No. 01-01-84, dated 12 January 1984, every district and local clubs shall affiliate with PARA without unnecessary delay."[3]