The world of mobile telecommunications in the Philippines can often seem confusing, especially when it comes to identifying which network provider a mobile number belongs to. One common query among mobile users is about the mobile number prefix “0956” and which network it is associated with. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the importance of mobile number prefixes in the Philippines, the network behind the 0956 prefix, and everything you need to know about mobile telecommunications in the country.
What Are Mobile Number Prefixes?
Mobile number prefixes are the first four digits of a mobile phone number, and they play an essential role in identifying the network provider to which a particular mobile number is assigned. In the Philippines, mobile numbers typically consist of 11 digits, starting with a prefix that helps distinguish one provider from another. This system is particularly useful for consumers who want to know whether a call or text message is within their network or outside, as it affects the cost of communication.
For instance, sending a text message or making a call to a number within the same network provider often comes with lower charges or is even free, depending on the user’s mobile plan. Conversely, cross-network communication can be more expensive, so understanding mobile number prefixes is crucial in managing costs.
0956: What Network Does It Belong To?
The 0956 prefix is officially associated with Globe Telecom, one of the largest telecommunications providers in the Philippines. Globe Telecom, along with its competitor Smart Communications, dominates the country’s mobile service landscape. By knowing that the 0956 number is under Globe, users can make informed decisions about call and text charges.
A Brief Overview of Globe Telecom
Globe Telecom is a key player in the Philippine telecommunications industry, providing mobile, broadband, and home internet services to millions of Filipinos. Globe has a broad range of mobile number prefixes, and 0956 is one of them. As a Globe subscriber, you can enjoy various prepaid and postpaid services, including call, text, and data packages.
Here’s a list of other prefixes used by Globe Telecom:
- 0905
- 0906
- 0915
- 0916
- 0926
- 0935
- 0955
- 0975
These are just a few of the many prefixes that Globe uses. It’s important to note that the allocation of prefixes is regulated by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the government body responsible for managing and distributing telecommunications services in the Philippines.
How Can You Verify If 0956 Is Still a Globe Number?
While the 0956 prefix originally belonged to Globe Telecom, there’s a new factor that can complicate the identification of networks—mobile number portability (MNP). Introduced in 2021, this service allows mobile phone users to switch from one network provider to another without changing their mobile number, including the prefix.
What Is Mobile Number Portability?
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is a feature that allows subscribers to transfer from one network to another while retaining their original number. This means that even if you have a Globe number with the 0956 prefix, you can switch to another provider like Smart or DITO Telecommunity while keeping your 0956 number.
This feature benefits users who are looking for better service plans or improved network coverage without the hassle of changing their phone number. However, it also means that you can no longer solely rely on the prefix to determine the network provider.
To verify if a 0956 number still belongs to Globe Telecom or if it has been ported to another network, users can:
- Check with the current owner of the number: Simply ask them what network they’re using.
- Use online services: Several apps and websites allow you to check the network of a particular number.
- Call customer service: Globe, Smart, and other telecommunications providers can assist in verifying the number’s current network.
Understanding the Importance of Network Identification
Network identification using mobile number prefixes remains an essential practice, especially for people who want to avoid unnecessary charges when calling or texting across networks. Here’s why identifying a number’s network is important:
Cost Efficiency
Knowing the network provider of a particular mobile number can save you money. Many telecom providers offer cheaper or even unlimited calls and texts within their own network. By identifying that a number belongs to the same network as yours, you can take advantage of these offers. However, if the number belongs to a different network, you may want to reconsider making the call or sending a message if you’re on a budget.
Promotions and Freebies
Telecommunication companies in the Philippines regularly offer promotions that provide free texts, calls, or data within their network. For instance, Globe might provide unlimited calls and texts to other Globe numbers as part of a promo, and knowing the network can help you decide when to take advantage of such deals.
Better Network Coverage
In some areas, one network may provide better coverage than others. If you’re in a rural or remote area, knowing which network has better coverage in that specific location can improve communication quality. For example, if you’re in an area with strong Globe coverage, calling a Globe number (such as one with the 0956 prefix) might result in clearer reception.
Comparing Globe with Other Major Networks in the Philippines
When it comes to mobile communication in the Philippines, Globe Telecom is not the only player. The other significant providers are Smart Communications and the newer player, DITO Telecommunity. Here’s how they compare:
Smart Communications
Smart Communications is Globe’s largest competitor in the Philippine market. Like Globe, Smart offers a wide range of prepaid and postpaid plans, along with various mobile number prefixes. Some Smart prefixes include:
- 0908
- 0918
- 0920
- 0947
- 0998
DITO Telecommunity
DITO Telecommunity is a relatively new entrant to the Philippine telecom industry. Launched in 2021, DITO aims to provide affordable and high-quality mobile services. Some of DITO’s prefixes include:
- 0991
- 0992
- 0993
Both Smart and DITO offer competitive plans, but Globe remains a favorite for many Filipinos due to its extensive network coverage and innovative promos.
Also Read: What Network is 0945?
How to Take Advantage of Promotions Based on Network Prefixes
In the Philippines, network-specific promotions are quite popular. Here are a few tips to make the most of these offers:
Research Ongoing Promos
Telecom providers regularly update their promotions, so it’s essential to stay informed about the latest offers. Globe, for example, frequently introduces new promos, which can provide significant savings on calls and texts within their network.
Use Apps
Several mobile apps allow users to track their usage and manage promos. Globe’s “Gcash” app, for instance, can help users keep track of their expenses and promos, making it easier to stay within budget.
Stay Updated on Mobile Number Portability
If you’ve switched networks through Mobile Number Portability, be mindful that your previous promos might not apply anymore. Stay updated on any changes that may occur after you transfer networks.
The 0956 mobile number prefix in the Philippines is primarily associated with Globe Telecom. However, with the introduction of Mobile Number Portability, the prefix alone is no longer a definitive way of determining a number’s current network provider. Knowing the network associated with a specific number is essential for cost management, particularly when taking advantage of network-specific promotions.
By staying informed about which provider uses which prefixes and understanding how Mobile Number Portability affects this system, users can make better decisions when it comes to communication and managing expenses. Whether you’re a Globe subscriber or part of another network, knowing these details will ensure you maximize savings while enjoying seamless communication.