Recently, Optical Media Board and Pilipinas Anti-Anti Piracy Task Force has been conducting a series of raids.
So internet cafe, should beware and should start complying by installing Licensed Softwares. My internet cafe, only have 7 licensed Windows Home Edition and the rest we have installed Ubuntu. Instead of Microsoft Office, we decided to install Open Office. With this move, I hope we are already complying.
Here’s another note, although you have already installed licensed Microsoft softwares. The end-user agreement does not cover “renting it out”, it is for sole personal use. Thus, to resolve this as an internet cafe provider, you need to submit to Microsoft a “Software Rental Agreement”. In submitting the “Software Rental Agreement” you need to list down all your software inventory, number of computers and etc. After this, you need to submit it to Microsoft Philippines upon approval Microsoft Philippines will sign and mail it back to you.
Alfox Computer Center: Microsoft Rental Agreement Form.
Note: I tried to look for the link to download an agreement form from Microsoft Philippines, but could not find any.
Further, aside from complying with the license softwares. If you’re offering a CD-Burning services or selling CDRs/DVDRs, then you need to get a Permit from Optical Media Board.
“ignorance of the law excuses no one”
Find out about this via Optical Media Board Website
Some Memo Circular to take note
1) Guidelines for Establishment Offering CD-Burning Services
2) Defining the Obligations of Replicators & Duplicators
3) Information Manual on Licensing of Optical Media Establishments and Issuance of Permits
4) Guidelines relating to Recordable CDS
Some Forms to take note
1) Requirements for Licensing
2) Application for Accreditation
3) Application in securing Commercial Reproduction Permit for Optical Media
There are several requirements listed. But I think any legitimate Small Business Owners can meet the requirement easily.
