Communication in the Philippines
A local SIM is the easiest way to stay in touch in the Philippines: you can call or message hotels, drivers, guides and our team at local rates, and use mobile data for maps and messaging apps.
Mobile networks in the Philippines
The Philippines has three mobile network operators:
- Globe, which also runs the TM brand.
- Smart, which also runs the TNT (Talk ’N Text) brand. The old Sun brand has been merged into Smart.
- DITO, the newest network, launched in 2021.
Globe and Smart have the most extensive nationwide coverage; DITO’s coverage is growing, mainly in cities.
Before island-hopping days
Coverage on small islands, in mountain areas and at sea can still be weak or missing on any network, so download offline maps and confirmations before island-hopping days.
SIM registration for tourists
Under the SIM Registration Act (Republic Act 11934), every SIM in the Philippines must be registered before it works. Foreign visitors on a tourist entry register with:
- their passport (photo page and entry stamp),
- proof of an address in the Philippines, such as a hotel booking, and
- a return or onward ticket showing the departure date.
A SIM registered to a tourist is valid for 30 days and then switches off automatically. If you extend your stay, the SIM can be extended by showing your approved visa extension to the network before the 30 days end.
On arrival
SIM counters at the main international airports can sell and help register a SIM on arrival. Keep your passport, hotel booking and flight details ready.
Data, eSIM and load
- Prepaid credit is called “load”. Networks sell data and call bundles (“promos”) by the day, week or month, and prices change often, so check the current promos at the counter or in the network’s app.
- Some phones and networks also support eSIM; check with your network and phone before you travel.
- Incoming calls and texts on a local prepaid SIM are generally free, so family back home can reach you on your local number.
WiFi
Most hotels, resorts and many cafes offer WiFi, but speed varies a lot, especially on smaller islands and in remote resorts. If you need to work while traveling, ask us which properties have reliable connections, or bring a mobile data plan as backup.
Staying in touch with us while you travel
When we arrange your trip, our support team is available 24/7 while you travel. Save our number +63-917-175-6678 before you land. For more practical tips, see our pre-arrival information for the Philippines and our guide to tipping in the Philippines.
Tourismo Filipino is a Manila-based Philippines DMC for travel agencies, groups of any size, and private travelers, since 2010.
Frequently asked questions
Do tourists need to register a SIM?
Yes. Under the SIM Registration Act (Republic Act 11934), every SIM in the Philippines must be registered before it works. Foreign visitors on a tourist entry register with their passport, proof of an address in the Philippines such as a hotel booking, and a return or onward ticket showing the departure date.
How long is a tourist SIM valid?
A SIM registered to a tourist is valid for 30 days and then switches off automatically. If you extend your stay, the SIM can be extended by showing your approved visa extension to the network before the 30 days end.
Which network has the best coverage?
Globe and Smart have the most extensive nationwide coverage; DITO’s coverage is growing, mainly in cities. Coverage on small islands, in mountain areas and at sea can still be weak or missing on any network.
Plan with a Manila-based team
Plan your Philippines trip with us
Tourismo Filipino is a Manila-based DMC planning private trips across the Philippines. Guides in English, Spanish, French, Chinese, Japanese and more on request. 24/7 support while you travel. We usually reply within the day.
Plan my tripCall +63-917-175-6678
Or email [email protected]
Travel agencies and tour operators: white-label FIT and group ground handling at net rates. Request a proposal
