Best Prepaid Phone Plans in the Philippines

Last Updated – Jun 21, 2023 @ 9:08 am

If your main goal is to lower your monthly bills, then the best prepaid mobile plans in the Philippines are the solution to your dilemma.

These plans do not just give you amazing value for your money, but it also gives you an opportunity to *finally* get rid of lengthy contracts that don’t always fit your needs.

Prepaid phone plans are truly the most practical (and affordable!) option if you already have a device. 

You’ll be surprised at how many choices you have when it comes to this wireless service plan, with some even granting you much-needed data allowance, unlimited calls, and unlimited texts for as low as Php50 for a couple of days! What a steal, right?

Keep in mind that it’s quite challenging to pin down the perfect prepaid phone plan for each individual since it ultimately depends on your usage.

What is a Mobile Prepaid Plan?

A mobile prepaid plan means you consistently have to pay or recharge for your plan upfront. This is the plan you’ll automatically have when you purchase a SIM in a store. Before you can enjoy any type of services such as calls, texts, or mobile internet, you have to “load” your SIM.

The services you’ll be able to enjoy depend on the credit available on your prepaid plan, as well as the amount you pay.

Prepaid plans also usually expire after a few days. For example, your load promo may only be valid for 5 or 7 days, or even 30 days.

If you use up all your credit allocation before it expires, you need to recharge again. For instance, if you sign up for unli call and text with 8GB internet, and you use up all your mobile data allocation, you won’t be able to access websites anymore, although you’ll still be able to call and text.

Related Guide: Best Pocket WiFi in the Philippines


Prepaid vs. Postpaid

To better understand what a mobile prepaid plan is, you should also know what a postpaid plan is.

A postpaid plan is a contract where you pay a set price per month to your network in exchange for fixed inclusions.

Postpaid plans can be SIM-only or with a device, although it is more common for Filipinos to choose postpaid plans with a device. Usually, this type of plan includes unlimited calls and text. The main difference is usually the data allocation.

To give you a better perspective on prepaid phone plans and postpaid phone plans, let’s discuss the pros and cons of each.

Pros of a prepaid phone plan

Price.

Because you’ll only pay for the service you use, a prepaid plan may help you save more money. This is the case especially for people who usually use their phones only for talking and texting.

Convenient.

Because you don’t have to go to your preferred network’s store to set up your postpaid plan contract, you can save time and money.

Freedom.

Sometimes, being tied to a long service contract doesn’t make sense, especially if your phone usage is inconsistent. With a prepaid plan, you can simply add load to your SIM when you need it. 

No surprise bills.

When you go with a prepaid plan, you won’t have to worry about extra monthly charges that can easily rack up. This will give you peace of mind, especially if you’re paying for your family’s phone plan.

Cons of prepaid plans

Price.

Remember what we told you about saving more money when it comes to prepaid phone plans? Unfortunately, this is not the case 100% of the time. If you have to consistently use your phone, especially for mobile data, you still have to spend money.

You need to buy a phone.

There are limited prepaid phone plans that come with a phone so this is an added expense on your part. If you do find a prepaid plan with a phone, it’s usually not a smartphone and you can only use it for calls and text.

Limited roaming capacity.

Prepaid phone plans don’t offer a lot of services related to roaming, which means you may not be able to use your phone properly if you go out of the country or if you need to call someone abroad.

Related: Complete International Travel Checklist

Expiration.

Most data plans and load come with an expiry date. If you weren’t able to use your full service allotment before it expires, it can be frustrating.

Pros of a postpaid plan

Tons of Inclusions.

Do you fear not having enough load for data, calling, or texting? Then you’ll love postpaid since it usually comes with a high limit on data, as well as unlimited calls and texts.

Convenient.

Although you’d have to go to a store to sign your contract, you won’t have to reload your phone all the time, which can be very convenient, especially for those who don’t want to manually do this task.

More options.

There is now a wide range of postpaid plans below Php1,000 that you can get. If you don’t mind spending more, you’ll enjoy a wider range of options. Some even come with a complimentary Netflix subscription, and other perks such as free cloud photo storage.

It can come with a phone.

Because there are networks that offer phone + postpaid plan packages, you won’t have to worry about getting a new phone. You’ll even have the opportunity to upgrade your old phone from a previous plan without settling a huge upfront cost.

Cons of a postpaid plan

Commitment.

If you don’t like financial commitments, a postpaid phone plan may not be a good idea since you will be under a 12-24-month lock-in period. If you can’t pay your bill, your network may hunt you down, and your credit score will be affected.

Surprise bills.

Chances are, you’ve heard horror stories of people being charged thousands for extra consumption. If you cannot get into the habit of monitoring your data, text, and call usage, this can easily happen.

Related: Best Postpaid Phone Plans in the Philippines


How prepaid phone plans work

Imagine this. Your 10-year-old son has been requesting a phone for years and is telling you that it’s important for school.

After some thinking, you agree that a phone for your kid is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. He may need a phone to contact you, or do research for his homework. Because of this, you get your kid a basic phone and buy a prepaid SIM card – one without frills or commitments.

But here’s the catch. Your son LOVES Tiktok. 

Can you imagine if you put your son on a postpaid plan with only 5GB of internet per month? He’ll use that up in a day! Additionally, he may not know how to correctly monitor his data usage and may rack up additional bills due to his love for the said social media platform.

So instead of a postpaid plan, you get him a prepaid plan. Then, you may get him a promo with free 1GB of Tiktok. When this allocation runs out, your kid needs to ask you for load once more. 

For this reason, prepaid plans are the best option for those who want control over their monthly network bills.

An added perk of prepaid plans is that the top networks in the country have made it easier for customers to access their various prepaid offers.

Therefore, looking for the perfect “load” or “promo” literally just takes a few clicks. 

Related: Best Internet Plans in the Philippines


Types of Mobile Prepaid Plans In The Philippines

Here are the types of prepaid plans you can avail of in the country. Keep in mind that most of these prepaid plan types can be mixed, depending on the package available.

Prepaid load

A prepaid load is basically prepaid credits to be used to pay for calls, texts, and mobile data. However, using a “regular load” is wasteful and easily gets expensive.

Usually, regular load is used to sign up for a promo.

Unlimited Text

When you know that your phone is going to be used mainly for texts, it’s best to avail of unlimited text prepaid plans. This can either be unlimited texts to all networks or only limited to your network.

Unlimited Calls

Calls are a necessity for all kinds of users. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a senior citizen, chances are you’ll never run out of reasons to call someone.

Unlimited call plans also come in two types: either you can call all networks or only limited to your network.

Data

Data is the fuel that powers your mobile device. You can use up your data in many ways – internet browsing, downloading apps, playing games, and many more.

Although there are data-only plans, this offer is usually mixed with text and call capabilities.


Best Prepaid SIM Cards in the Philippines

Here are the most common sim cards you can buy in the Philippines, including the Price.

  • Smart: starts at Php40
  • Globe: starts at Php40
  • Cherry Prepaid: starts at Php29
  • GOMO: starts at Php299 (with 30GB data)
  • DITO: starts at Php49
  • Talk N Text: starts at Php30
  • Touch Mobile: starts at Php40

Where to Buy Prepaid SIM Cards in the Philippines

If you’re a foreigner or a Balikbayan, getting a SIM card is so easy since it’s available in all major and non-major airports nationwide.

You can also easily find SIM card stalls in the mall, groceries, and sari-sari stores across the country.


What type of SIM Card to Buy in the Philippines

There are different types of SIM cards you can get in the Philippines. For example, you can get a standard SIM card that can be used for texting, calling, and browsing the internet.

You may also get an eSIM (usually only in network stores), which is a programmable SIM card embedded into a device so you can connect all your gadgets to one number, or use multiple numbers on one device.

Another type of SIM you can get is a 4G or LTE sim, which is perfect for people who need fast internet.

Not content with 4G? Then purchase a 5G SIM to level up your mobile internet speed and experience. This is amazing for people who use their phones for streaming, gaming, and video calls. 

Traveling outside the Philippines? Then you can get a roaming SIM. This type of SIM card operates on more than one network within the country where you bought it.


Top Prepaid Phone Plans in the Philippines

Here are the best prepaid phone plans in the Philippines.

Note: For some promos, the Keyword and Price are not listed. For these cases, the Keyword is also the name of the promo, and the Price is already obvious in the promo name. 

Smart

Considered as one of the premiere mobile operators in the country, it’s no surprise that this network offers some of the best prepaid plans you can have.

Smart is known to have reliable signal networks all over the Philippines, not only for calls and texts, but also for mobile data. 

Here are some of Smart’s best prepaid plans:

PlanValidityInclusions
POWERALL997 days8GB + unli TikTok + unli texts to all networks
POWERALL1497 days12GB + unli TikTok + unli texts to all networks
Extra Load 75365 days75 Regular Load + free 500MB (valid for 1 day)
Extra Load 100365 days100 Regular Load + free 1GB (valid for 1 day)
Extra Load 115365 days115 Regular Load + free 1.5GB (valid for 1 day)
Extra Load 125365 days125 Regular Load + free 1.5GB (valid for 1 day)
Extra Load 150365 days125 Regular Load + free 1.5GB (valid for 1 day)
Extra Load 200365 days200 Regular Load + free 2.5GB (valid for 2 days)
Extra Load 250365 days250 Regular Load + free 2.5GB (valid for 2 days)
Extra Load 300365 days300 Regular Load + free 3GB (valid for 3 days)
Extra Load 500365 days500 Regular Load + free 3GB (valid for 3 days)
Extra Load 600365 days600 Regular Load + free 3GB (valid for 3 days)
Extra Load 1000365 days1000 Regular Load + free 3GB (valid for 3 days)
Giga Video 503 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 1GB for all sites and apps + unli text to all
Giga Video 997 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 2GB for all sites and apps
Giga Video 29930 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 4GB for all sites and apps
Giga Video 39930 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 6GB for all sites and apps
Giga Video 49930 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 8GB for all sites and apps
Giga Video+ 753 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 8GB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Giga Video+ 1497 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 2GB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Giga Video+ 2497 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 3GB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Giga Video+ 44930 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 4GB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Giga Video+ 54930 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 6GB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Giga Video+ 64930 days1GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 8GB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Double Giga 997 days2GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 2GB for all sites and apps
Double Giga 29930 days2GB/day for Youtube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay + 4GB for all sites and apps
Double GIGA Stories 997 days2GB/day for Kumu, Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter + 2GB for all sites and apps
Double GIGA Stories 29930 days2GB/day for Kumu, Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter + 7GB for all sites and apps
Double Giga Video+ 503 days2GB open access data +2GB per day for Youtube, IWantTFC, CignalPlay, and NBA + unli texts to all networks
Double Giga Video+ 99 (Gigalife app exclusive)7 days3GB open access data +2GB per day for Youtube, IWantTFC, CignalPlay, and NBA + unli texts and calls to all networks
Double Giga Video+ 299 (Gigalife app exclusive)30 days4GB open access data +2GB per day for Youtube, IWantTFC, CignalPlay, and NBA + unli texts and calls to all networks
Double Giga Stories+ 503 days2GB open access data + 2GB/day for Kumu, Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter + unli texts to all networks
Double Giga Stories+ 50 (Gigalife app exclusive)7 days3GB open access data + 2GB/day for Kumu, Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter + unli texts and calls to all networks
Double Giga Stories+ 299 (Gigalife app exclusive)30 days4GB open access data + 2GB/day for Kumu, Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter + unli texts and calls to all networks
Double Data – Giga Video 997 days1GB per day for YouTube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, Gigaplay + 4GB for all sites and apps
Double Data – Giga Video 29930 days1GB per day for YouTube, IWantTFC, NBA, CignalPlay, Gigaplay + 8GB for all sites and apps
Double Data – Giga Stories 997 days1GB/day for Kumu, Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter + 4GB for all sites and networks
Double Data – Giga Stories 29930 days1GB/day for Kumu, Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter + 8GB for all sites and networks
All data 503 days2GB for all sites and apps
All data 997 days6GB for all sites and apps
All data 29930 days24GB for all sites and apps
All data 59930 days72GB for all sites and apps
All Data+ 753 days2GB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Magic Data 99no expiry2GB for all sites and apps
Magic Data 199no expiry6GB for all sites and apps
Magic Data 399no expiry24GB for all sites and apps
Magic Data 499no expiry36GB for all sites and apps
Magic Data 599no expiry48GB for all sites and apps
Unli 5G Data 2997 daysUnlimited 5G data for all sites and apps + extra 3GB when using data in non-5G areas
Unli 5G Data 59930daysUnlimited 5G data for all sites and apps + extra 12GB when using data in non-5G areas
Unli 5G Data 79930daysUnlimited 5G data for all sites and apps + extra 24GB when using data in non-5G areas
All Net 301 dayUnlimited calls and texts to all networks + 100MB for all sites and apps
All Net 503 daysUnlimited calls and texts to all networks + 500MB for all sites and apps
All Net 997 daysUnlimited calls and texts to all networks + 1GB for all sites and apps
All Net 29930 daysUnlimited calls and texts to all networks + 2GB for all sites and apps

How to subscribe for a Smart prepaid plan:

  1. Text the KEYWORD to 9999
  2. Dial *121# and navigate the menu to register
  3. Call the Smart Hotline. *888 on your mobile, and 888-1111 on landline
  4. Visit the Smart Online Store
  5. Download the My Smart App on App Store or Google Play Store

Globe

Globe is another major player in the mobile Philippine industry with over 87 million subscribers.

The prepaid plans of this mobile network provide great value for money, especially those with data. Globe offers amazing deals especially when it comes to data. 

Here are the different globe prepaid SIM plans you can try.

PlanValidityInclusions
Go503 days5GB data + unli texts to all networks + 1GB for GoWiFi
GoPlus997 days8GB data + unli texts to all networks + 8GB choice of GoWatch, GoPlay, GoShare, GoLearn, GoWork, GoListen, GoShop, GoRide, GoKorean, GoPinoy, or GoAnime, or GoSave (Php10 GCash credits), or GoHealth (1 KonsultaMD Consultation, P49 HealthNow Voucher)
GoPlus1297 days10GB data + unli texts and calls to all networks + 8GB choice of GoWatch, GoPlay, GoShare, GoLearn, GoWork, GoListen, GoShop, GoRide, GoKorean, GoPinoy, or GoAnime, or GoSave (Php15 GCash credits), or GoHealth (1 KonsultaMD Consultation, P79 HealthNow Voucher)
GoPlus1497 days10GB data + unli texts and calls to all networks + 11GB choice of GoWatch, GoPlay, GoShare, GoLearn, GoWork, GoListen, GoShop, GoRide, GoKorean, GoPinoy, or GoAnime, or GoSave (Php15 GCash credits), or GoHealth (1 KonsultaMD Consultation, P99 HealthNow Voucher)
GoPlus25015 days15GB data + 15GB choice of GoWatch, GoPlay, GoShare, GoLearn, GoWork, GoListen, GoShop, GoRide, GoKorean, GoPinoy, or GoAnime, or GoSave (Php20 GCash credits), or GoHealth (1 KonsultaMD Consultation, P99 HealthNow Voucher)
GoPlus40015 days25GB data + 15GB choice of GoWatch, GoPlay, GoShare, GoLearn, GoWork, GoListen, GoShop, GoRide, GoKorean, GoPinoy, or GoAnime, or GoSave (Php20 GCash credits), or GoHealth (1 KonsultaMD Consultation, P199 HealthNow Voucher)
Surf4All997 days9GB for sharing with your friends and family
Surf4All24915 days20GB for sharing with your friends and family
GoSakto707 days1GB data + unli texts to all networks + 1GB daily for GoWatch&Play and GoShare&Shop + 1GB GoWiFi access
GoSakto907 days2GB data + unli texts to all networks + 1GB daily for GoWatch&Play and GoShare&Shop + 1GB GoWiFi access
GoSakto1207 days3GB data + unli texts to all networks + unli calls to Globe/TM + 1GB daily for GoWatch&Play and GoShare&Shop + 2GB GoWiFi access
GoSakto1407 days4GB data + unli texts to all networks + unli calls to Globe/TM + 1GB daily for GoWatch&Play and GoShare&Shop + 2GB GoWiFi access
GoSurf152 days100MB + 30MB for Instagram
GoSurf503 days2GB + unli texts to all networks + 1GB daily for your choice of GoWatch&Play, GoShare&Shop, GoListen&Travel or GoLearn&Work + 1GB GoWiFi Access
GoSurf29930 days2GB + 10GB for your choice of GoWatch&Play, GoShare&Shop, GoListen&Travel or GoLearn&Work + 1GB GoWiFi Access
GoSurf59930 days5GB + 10GB for your choice of GoWatch&Play, GoShare&Shop, GoListen&Travel or GoLearn&Work + 1GB GoWiFi Access
GoSurf99930 days10GB + 10GB for your choice of GoWatch&Play, GoShare&Shop, GoListen&Travel or GoLearn&Work + 1GB GoWiFi Access
GoSurf129930 days15GB + 10GB for your choice of GoWatch&Play, GoShare&Shop, GoListen&Travel or GoLearn&Work + 1GB GoWiFi Access
GoSurf199930 days30GB + 10GB for your choice of GoWatch&Play, GoShare&Shop, GoListen&Travel or GoLearn&Work + 1GB GoWiFi Access
GoSurf249930 days50GB + 10GB for your choice of GoWatch&Play, GoShare&Shop, GoListen&Travel or GoLearn&Work + 1GB GoWiFi Access
GoUnli201 dayunli calls and texts to all networks + 50MB of mobile internet
GoUnli302 daysunli calls and texts to all networks + 100MB of mobile internet
GoUnli503 daysunli calls and texts to all networks + 500MB of mobile internet
GoUnli957 daysunli calls and texts to all networks + 1GB of mobile internet
GoUnli18015 daysunli calls and texts to all networks + 2GB of mobile internet
GoUnli35030 daysunli calls and texts to all networks + 3GB of mobile internet

How to subscribe for a Globe prepaid plan:

  1. Dial *143 and navigate the menu to register
  2. Download the Globe One App
  3. Reload using call cards (dial 222)
  4. Share-a-load
  5. Buy load online

DITO

This is a relatively new player in the network industry in the Philippines. Since 2020, they have been specializing in high speed data connection, and have made a mark in the country. 

Keep in mind that DITO currently doesn’t cover the whole country yet. You can only use DITO in most places north and south of Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, Davao del Sur, and South Cotabato.

Here are DITO’s prepaid phone plans:

PlanPriceValidityInclusions
Dito Level Up 99Php27590 days24GB + 3GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 900 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 199Php56190 days54GB + 6GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 900 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 299Php84390 days93GB + 9GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 900 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 499Php1,40790 days180GB + 15GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 900 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 999Php2,81790 days390GB + 30GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 900 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 99Php505180 days48GB + 6GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 1,800 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 199Php1,015180 days109GB + 12GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 1,800 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 299Php1,525180 days186GB + 18GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 1,800 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 499Php2,545180 days360GB + 30GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 1,800 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 999Php5,095180 days780GB + 60GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 1,800 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 99Php713365 days96GB + 12GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 3,600 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 199Php1,433365 days216GB + 12GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 3,600 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 299Php2,153365 days372GB + 36GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 3,600 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 499Php3,593365 days720GB + 60GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 3,600 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Dito Level Up 999Php7,193365 days1,560GB + 120GB bonus + unli calls within the network + 3,600 minutes calls to other mobile networks + unli texts to all mobile networks
Data10Php101 day1GB
Data20Php203 days2GB
Data50Php507 days5GB

How to subscribe for a DITO prepaid plan:

  • Download the DITO app

TM

TM, also known as Touch Mobile and Republika ng TM,  is under Globe Telecom. It caters to the middle-income earners in the country, as well as low-income groups.

TM is popular for its affordable call and messaging services, as well as their “all network” offers.

Here are TM’s prepaid plans:

PlanKeywordValidityInclusions
All-NetSurf20A20/AN20/ANS202 daysUnli calls and texts to all networks + 300MB for all apps and sites + 150MB per day for Facebook, Tiktok, Mobile Legends, and YouTube, etc.
All-NetSurf30A30/AN30/ANS303 daysUnli calls and texts to all networks + 750MB for all apps and sites + 150MB per day for Facebook, Tiktok, Mobile Legends, and YouTube, etc.
TM EasyPlan 150TMEP15015 daysUnli calls and texts to all networks + 1GB data + 1GB per day for Facebook, Instagram, Mobile Legends, YouTube, and TikTok
TM EasyPlan 300TMEP30030 daysUnli calls and texts to all networks + 2GB data + 1GB per day for Facebook, Instagram, Mobile Legends, YouTube, and TikTok
EasySurf503 days2GB data + 3GB freebie + unli texts to all networks
EasySurf753 days2GB data + 6GB freebie + unli texts to all networks
EasySurf997 days2GB data + 14GB freebie + unli texts to all networks
EasySurf1407 days2GB data + 14GB freebie + unli calls and texts to all networks
FB10FB103 days1GB Facebook
YT10YT103 days1GB YouTube
Viu10Viu103 days1GB Viu
Tiktok10Tiktok103 days1GB Tiktok
ML10ML103 days1GB Mobile Legends
WR10WR103 days1GB Wild Rift
COD10COD103 days1GB Call of Duty: Mobile
Unli Tawag 15UI151 dayUnli calls to TM/Globe
Txt5Txt51 dayUnli text to TM/Globe
Txt10Txt102 daysUnli text to TM/Globe
Unli All net 10UA101 dayUnli texts to all networks
AstigTxt305 daysUnli texts to all networks
ComboAll10CA101 day50 texts to all networks + unli calls and texts to Globe/TM
ComboAll15CA152 daysUnli texts to all networks + 120 minutes of calls and texts to Globe/TM
ComboAll20CA203 days50 texts to all networks + unli calls and texts to Globe/TM
SulitTxt51 day25 texts to TM/Globe
Surf4All997 days9GB for all apps and sites, shareable up to 4 friends/devices
Surf4All2497 days20GB for all apps and sites, shareable up to 4 friends/devices
GG303 days300MB for Games (Mobile Legends, Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, VainGlory, Legacy of Discord, Arena or Valor, Lineage Revolution, Free Fire battlegrounds , Rule of Survival) + unli texts to all networks
GG3505 days500MB for Games (Mobile Legends, Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, VainGlory, Legacy of Discord, Arena or Valor, Lineage Revolution, Free Fire battlegrounds , Rule of Survival) + unli texts to all networks
GAMES151 day100MB for Games (Mobile Legends, Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, VainGlory, Legacy of Discord, Arena or Valor, Lineage Revolution, Free Fire battlegrounds , Rule of Survival)
GAMES202 days100MB for Games (Mobile Legends, Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, VainGlory, Legacy of Discord, Arena or Valor, Lineage Revolution, Free Fire battlegrounds , Rule of Survival)
GAMES507 days300MB for Games (Mobile Legends, Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, VainGlory, Legacy of Discord, Arena or Valor, Lineage Revolution, Free Fire battlegrounds , Rule of Survival)
GAMES9930 days300MB for Games (Mobile Legends, Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, VainGlory, Legacy of Discord, Arena or Valor, Lineage Revolution, Free Fire battlegrounds , Rule of Survival)
FB152 days200MB Facebook
FB303 days300MB Facebook + unli texts to all networks
FB505 days300MB Facebook + unli texts to all networks
Facebook507 days600MB Facebook
FB19930 days1GB Facebook

How to subscribe for a TM prepaid plan:

  • Text the promo name to 8080.
  • Dial *143# and navigate the menu to register.

GOMO

GOMO is a fully digital telco that operates similarly to other network operators. However, they do not own or have any radiofrequency.

Instead, this mobile virtual network operator enters into a business agreement with an MNO. This way, it can use the MNO’s network to power its services.

The various GOMO Data offers are as follows:

PlanPriceValidityInclusions
GOMO SIMPhp299no expiry30GB data only
GOMO SIMPhp499no expiry25 GB + 100 minutes calls + 500 texts

How to subscribe for a GOMO prepaid plan:

  • Buy a GOMO SIM (get a new number or keep your existing number)

TNT

This cellular service is Smart Communications’ counterpart to Globe’s TM. It is famous for its cheap promos, especially when it comes to calling and texting. 

PlanValidityInclusions
Surf Saya 202 days150/day for Facebook, Mobile Legends, Instagram, and Twitter + 300MB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Surf Saya 303 days250/day for Facebook, Mobile Legends, Instagram, and Twitter + 450MB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Surf Saya 497 days100/day for Facebook, Mobile Legends, Instagram, and Twitter + 500MB for all sites and apps + unli calls and texts to all networks
Pantawid 101 day100 MB for all sites and apps + 100 minutes calls to all networks + 100 texts to all networks
All Data 503 days2GB for all sites and apps + free Tiktok for all 1GB/day
Giga K-Video 503 days1GB per day for Viu and YouTube + 1GB for all sites + Free Viu Premium
Giga K-Video 997 days9GB per day for Viu and YouTube + 2GB for all sites + Free Viu Premium
Giga K-Video 29930 days1GB per day for Viu and YouTube + 4GB for all sites + Free Viu Premium

How to subscribe for a TNT prepaid plan:

  • Download the GigaLife app.
  • Dial *123# and navigate the menu to register.

Cherry

Cherry Prepaid is another affordable network that aims to empower Filipinos through their call, text, and data promos.

This prepaid network is owned by Globe Telecom. Here are the different Cherry prepaid plans.

PlanValidityInclusions
CMSurf101 day150MB data + unlimited texts to all networks
CMSurf207 days350MB data + unlimited texts to all networks
CMSurf507 days1.7GB data + unlimited texts to all networks
CMSurf9930 days3.5GB data + unlimited texts to all networks
CMSurf19960 days6GB data + unlimited texts to all networks
CMSurf29960 days9GB data + unlimited texts to all networks
CMSurf39960 days12GB data + unlimited texts to all networks
CMSurf49960 days15GB data + unlimited texts to all networks
Ganda153 days250MB data + unli texts to all networks
Ganda307 days550MB data + unli texts to all networks
Ganda6015 days2.1GB data + unli texts to all networks
Ganda9015 days2.2GB data + unli texts to all networks
Tawag 57 days30 minutes call to all networks
Tawag 1015 days60 minutes call to all networks
UnliTawag101 dayunli calls to all networks
TriText51 dayall day text to TM, Globe, and Cherry
KaCher303 days500MB + 30 minutes calls and unli texts to all networks
KaCher505 days1.5GB + 30 minutes calls and unli texts to all networks
KaCher9910 days3GB + 60 minutes calls and unli texts to all networks
TriNet153 daysall day text + 30 minutes call to Globe, TM, and Cherry

How to subscribe for a prepaid plan:

  • Text the Keyword to 2138.
  • Dial *139# and navigate the menu to register.

Sun Cellular

Sun Cellular offers tons of great promos for those who are looking for a cheap way to call and text. It is powered by Smart Communications.

Here are Sun Cellular’s mobile prepaid plans:

PlanKeywordValidityInclusions
Wais10015 daysUnlimited calls and texts to Sun
Wais20030 daysUnlimited calls and texts to Sun
Big Time Data 70BDATA707 days1GB data + unli text to all networks + 30 minutes calls to Sun
Big Time Data 150BDATA15015 days2GB data + unli text to all networks + 30 minutes calls to Sun
Call & Text Unlimited 25CTU251 dayUnli calls to Sun + Unli texts to all networks + Facebook
Call & Text Unlimited 30CTU301 dayUnli calls to Sun + Unli texts to all networks + 100MB/day for Facebook
Call & Text Unlimited 50CTU503 daysUnli calls to Sun + unli texts to all networks + 100MB/day for Facebook + nonstop chat (messenger, WhatsApp, LINE, and WeChat)
Call & Text Unlimited 100CTU1007 daysUnli calls to Sun/Smart/TNT + unli texts to all networks + 100MB data
Call & Text Unlimited 150CTU1507 daysUnli calls to Sun/Smart/TNT + unli texts to all networks + 500MB data
Call & Text Unlimited 450CTU45030 daysUnli calls to Sun/Smart/TNT + unli texts to all networks + 1GB data
Sulit Surf Plus 20SSP20/SSP 202 days300 MB data + unli texts to all networks + unli calls to Sun/Smart/TNT
Sulit Surf Plus 99SSP99/SSP 997 days1GB data + unli texts to all networks + unli calls to Sun/Smart/TNT + 30 minutes calls to other networks
Sulit Surf Plus 249SSP249/SSP 24930 days2GB data + unli texts to all networks + unli calls to Sun/Smart/TNT + 60 minutes calls to other networks

How to subscribe for a Sun Cellular prepaid plan:

  • Text Keyword to 274.
  • Purchase load through the Sun Online Shop.
  • Dial *123# and navigate the menu to register.

Where to Buy Prepaid Load in the Philippines

There are tons of ways you can buy prepaid load in the Philippines. Here are some of them.

Sari-sari stores

Most sari-sari stores are authorized loading merchants that can send you load. Usually, there’s a small tarpaulin outside stores that indicates the networks they can provide load for. 

GCash

GCash has tons of regular load, promos, and exclusive offers for different networks, including broadband.

Maya

This digital bank also offers prepaid load for various networks.

Coins.Ph

With this e-wallet, you can buy load with your cash or cryptocurrency.

Grab

Although this app is more popular for its food and transportation, they also have load options that you can pay for with the balance on your Grab wallet.

Bank apps

Most bank apps have been offering load for major networks since the pandemic.


SIM Card Registration Law: How to Register Your SIM Card

In an effort to eliminate text scams in the Philippines, the SIM Card Registration Act was passed recently.

As mandated by the new bill, mobile phone subscribers using prepaid SIM cards are now required to register and verify their phone numbers with their respective PTEs within 180 days or 6 months from the effectivity of the measure.

An extension period of 120 days may be granted but only upon a valid written request addressed to the Department of Information and Communications Technology.

Here’s how you can register your SIM card.

Online

  1. Fill up an online form to be provided by your telco provider. Input your name, birthday, address, SIM card number, and SIM card serial number.
  2. Present a valid ID such as your passport, driver’s license, national ID, and other government-issued ID. You may also present your NBI clearance or PSA birth certificate.

In-person

  1. A form will be given to you when you buy a SIM card from an authorized SIM card seller. Complete the form with your information, as well as the information on your SIM card.
  2. Present a valid ID such as your passport, driver’s license, national ID, and other government-issued ID. You may also present your NBI clearance or PSA birth certificate. Keep in mind that sellers have a right to refuse to give you a SIM card if the presented ID is proven to be invalid.

Other things to keep in mind

  • For those under 18, the SIM card will be under their parent or guardian.
  • For individuals who live in places where there is no internet connection, wait for your telco company to visit your area to set up a remote registration drive.
  • Foreign nationals who are visiting as tourists for not more than 1 month must present their passport, proof of address in the country, and a ticket that shows the date of their departure from the Philippines.
    • For foreigners who plan on staying for over 30 days, they will be required to present more requirements such as an alien certificate of registration ID, alien employment permit, and school registration ID for students.

Prepaid Phone Plans FAQ in the Philippines

Still got questions about prepaid phone plans? We’ll answer them below.

Why are prepaid phone plans cheaper than postpaid?

Prepaid phone plans are usually affected by network deprioritization. When networks are too busy, carriers prioritize postpaid plans over prepaid plans, and prepaid plan users have to deal with a lower speed cap.

Additionally, prepaid phone plans also have fewer perks when compared to postpaid plans which is why it’s cheaper.

Can prepaid change to postpaid?

Yes. You can keep your current prepaid plan number when you switch to postpaid plan. Just talk to your network provider about it.

Can I keep my prepaid phone number?

Through Mobile Number Portability or MNP, you can keep your mobile number even when you change your plan, or switch networks.

How long can I use prepaid SIM cards?

Prepaid SIMs don’t have an expiration date as long as you keep using them. However, if you don’t use it or simply have zero balance, it will only stay active for a couple of months before it “expires.”

Here are the expiration dates for the different networks in the Philippines:

  • Globe Prepaid: 60 days
  • TM: 1 year
  • Smart: 6 months
  • Sun Cellular: 6 months
  • TNT: 6 months
  • GOMO: 1 year
  • DITO: 3 months
  • Cherry: 60 days

Before your SIM card will be terminated, your provider will send you a notification. However, don’t wait for this to happen.

Make sure to top up your SIM load to prevent it from expiring. Even a Php1 load is enough to keep it active. If your SIM becomes inactive, you won’t be able to send or receive texts, make or get calls, or connect to the internet. Additionally, the signal status will always be zero.

When it comes to unused SIM cards, the expiry data is listed on the package it comes with.

Disclaimer: Grit PH strives to post up-to-date information on all investment, banking, and other financial products we feature. However, information may change without notice. Therefore, we do not guarantee the accuracy of the information listed on the website, including those provided by third parties at any particular time. 

It is best to review the updated terms and conditions of your chosen financial institution. Grit PH is not affiliated with the companies mentioned in the article. All testimonials and opinions are representative only of the writer’s experience, but the results will be unique to each individual.

About MJ de Castro

MJ de Castro is the lead personal finance columnist at Grit PH.

MJ started her career as a writer for her local government’s City Information Office. Later on, she became a news anchor on PTV Davao del Norte.

Wanting to break free from the shackles of her 9-to-5 career to live by the beach, she pursued remote work. Over the years, she has developed a wide specialization on health, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, branding, and travel.

Now, she juggles writing professionally, her business centering on women’s menstrual health, and surfing.

Education: Ateneo de Davao University (AB Mass Communication)
Focus: Personal Finance, Personal Development, Entrepreneurship, & Marketing

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