WASHINGTON, May 27, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The National Puerto Rican Coalition (NPRC) asked the Federal Communications Commission in a letter today to support the proposed merger between AT&T and T-Mobile because it will help better meet the wireless needs of the Puerto Rican community not only in Puerto Rico, but also in every state in the U.S.

Rafael A. Fantauzzi, President & CEO of NPRC, has issued the following statement:

“AT&T’s presence in Puerto Rico has already brought significant social and economic benefits to the island, and the proposed merger will enable this company to continue to do so. From 2007 to 2009, AT&T provided employment for more than 2,000 residents, and the investment in broadband of more than $150 million. For Puerto Ricans, this has resulted in better healthcare options, increased economic opportunities and the ability to access critical news and government documents.

“By approving the proposed merger, the Commission will not only help residents in Puerto Rico, but also those throughout the United States, providing them with quick and affordable broadband access to improve their everyday lives.

“For 34 years, NPRC’s mission has been strengthening the social and economic well-being of Puerto Ricans. As such, NPRC urges the FCC to approve the merger between AT&T and T-Mobile to bring economic, health and societal benefits to our Puerto Ricans, in both the United States and in Puerto Rico.”

About NPRC

NPRC is a non-partisan 501 (c) (3) civil rights and advocacy organization whose mission is to strengthen the social, political, and economic well-being of Puerto Ricans throughout the United States and in Puerto Rico, with a special focus on the most vulnerable.

SOURCE National Puerto Rican Coalition