Mobile users starting can start switching networks and keep their numbers starting Sept. 30, as mobile number portability services becomes available across the country's three telcos -- Globe, Smart and DITO.
Telecommunications Connectivity Inc.—comprised of representatives from Globe Telecom, Smart Communications, and DITO Telecommunity—will be tasked with monitoring and operational governance of mobile number portability or MNP.
"We wish to announce to the Filipino people that as of today, Sept. 30, the core services of mobile number portability are now ready," Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. General Manager Melanie Manuel said.
Here's what you need to know about switching networks:
Switching from one network to another can be done via porting in or porting out. Prepaid to postpaid porting for DITO is not yet applicable as the telco does not offer postpaid services as of MNP launch.
Internal and external porting allowed
Let's say you want to go from Globe Prepaid to TM -- this is called internal porting or moving from one provider to another within your mother network. External porting is jumping from Smart to Globe, or switching from Globe to DITO for your data.
Domestic and international covered
Inbound and outbound SMS services will be available for all telcos. "Voice calls and roaming will be limited at the onset but will remedied as soon as possible," Manuel said.
Data reigns
Full data services upon porting in or out will be available. Once everything is settled, you can enjoy the speeds and offers of your new provider.
Loading will be available across physical stores
Topping up your number with load will be available across retailers and loading via third-party applications will be dependent on their capabilities.
Apps and subscriptions billings may be affected
Usual call, text, and data services are pretty much accounted for with the MNP act, but third-party apps may take time to integrate charges and billing to your postpaid plan.
"The availability of postpaid subscriptions to third-party applications via direct carrier billing will also depend on the application's capability," Manuel said.
How do you port in or out?
It depends per network. For Globe, porting can be done through the Globe ONE app, which is free to download for iOS and Android phones. Agents can also get in touch with you if want to do it online, or you can go to a physical store.
Transferring to DITO can be done in-person at a physical store or through the DITO app, also available for download on all phones.
If you're switching to Smart, you'll have to fill out a form on their site to apply.
Every network is different, but they all have requirements. You must have a mobile number already, and it can't be locked to a network subscription or plan. Numbers with outstanding balances or are part of a bundle can't apply for porting unless dues are settled or contract expires.
Your number has to be clean—fraudulent activity is a no-no.
And in case you're planning to port out more than once in a year, you can only do it every 60 days. Test runs with a provider that last just a week long are prohibited.
Once you pass Globe, Smart, or DITO's checks, you'll be granted a Unique Subscriber Code or USC, a 9-digit code valid for 15 days to be used as clearance for porting in.
Porting may also require proof of mobile phone ownership as well as a government-issued ID to ensure that the transaction is legitimate.
Still confused? Check out our guide.
For more information on porting in or out, eligibility, and requirements, check out the following sites:
For Globe.
For Smart.
For DITO.
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