In the Philippines, mobile communication is an essential part of daily life, and people often want to know which network a specific prefix belongs to. One frequently asked question involves the “0985” prefix. If you’ve ever wondered about the network linked to “0985” and want to understand how mobile numbering works in the Philippines, this guide has you covered.
Mobile Number Prefixes in the Philippines
Before diving into the network associated with “0985,” it’s helpful to understand mobile prefixes in the Philippines. The prefix, or the first four digits of a mobile number, identifies the telecom provider that issued the SIM card. For example, in the number 0985-123-4567, “0985” is the prefix.
The two largest telecom providers in the Philippines, Globe Telecom and Smart Communications, use a variety of prefixes for their SIM cards. Although mobile number portability now allows users to retain their number when switching providers, prefixes still generally indicate the original network provider.
Why Knowing Prefixes Matters
Knowing the prefix of a mobile number helps determine whether a call or text is within the same network, which is useful for managing costs. In the Philippines, many call and text packages are more affordable when used within the same network, so identifying a number’s network through its prefix can help you choose the most cost-effective communication options.
0985: What Network Does It Belong To?
The mobile prefix “0985” is assigned to Globe Telecom in the Philippines. Globe is one of the country’s leading telecom providers, offering a range of mobile, internet, and broadband services. If you receive a call or text from a number starting with “0985,” it’s typically from a Globe user.
However, with Mobile Number Portability (MNP) now available in the Philippines, users can switch networks without changing their numbers. This means that while the prefix “0985” is originally associated with Globe, the number could belong to another network if the user has switched providers through MNP.
A Closer Look at Globe Telecom
Globe Telecom is one of the two leading telecom companies in the Philippines, alongside Smart Communications. Known for a wide range of mobile and data plans, Globe caters to casual users, heavy data consumers, and international travelers alike.
Beyond connectivity, Globe is also a key player in digital services, offering mobile banking, streaming options, and more. If you’re using an 0985 Globe number or communicating with one, you’re likely benefiting from Globe’s expansive network and reliable coverage.
Common Globe Prefixes in the Philippines
To help you better recognize Globe numbers, here’s a list of some commonly used Globe prefixes, including 0985:
- 0817
- 0905
- 0906
- 0915
- 0916
- 0917
- 0926
- 0935
- 0936
- 0945
- 0956
- 0966
- 0975
- 0977
- 0985
This list is not exhaustive but includes many popular Globe prefixes. With millions of subscribers across the Philippines, Globe Telecom uses a wide variety of prefixes to serve its user base.
Mobile Number Portability: What to Keep in Mind
With Mobile Number Portability (MNP) now in effect, Filipinos can switch from one network to another while keeping their original number. This change, introduced in 2021, makes it harder to identify a network solely by its prefix. Before MNP, a number beginning with “0985” was almost certainly on the Globe network. However, under MNP, a user with an 0985 prefix may have switched to another provider.
How MNP Works
- Switching Process: If you want to change networks but keep your number, you simply inform your current provider, pay any outstanding balances, and apply for a switch.
- Processing Time: The switch typically takes 24 to 48 hours, during which there may be brief service interruptions. Once the transfer is complete, your number remains the same, but you’ll be using a new network.
- Network Flexibility: MNP applies to all major Philippine networks, including Globe, Smart, Talk ‘N Text (TNT), Sun Cellular, and DITO Telecommunity, enabling you to retain your number no matter where you switch.
Why Mobile Prefixes Matter for Promotions
One reason why Filipinos often want to know a prefix’s network is the many network-specific promos offered by telecom companies. Often, the most affordable call, text, and data packages are for same-network use.
Globe Promotions for “0985” Numbers
Since “0985” is originally a Globe prefix, here are some of the popular Globe promotions you might want to take advantage of if you or the person you’re communicating with uses an 0985 number:
- GoSURF Promos: Globe’s GoSURF offers large data packages for browsing, social media, and streaming. Many of these packages come with free calls and texts to other Globe and TM (Touch Mobile) numbers.
- UNLI Promos: These are unlimited call and text packages for other Globe numbers, perfect for those who primarily communicate within the same network.
- Globe Rewards: Subscribers earn points every time they load their prepaid SIM or pay a postpaid bill. These points can be redeemed for discounts, promos, or even purchases at partner stores.
Knowing that “0985” belongs to Globe gives you an edge when choosing the right promo to get the best value out of your mobile plan.
How to Check a Mobile Number’s Network
With MNP in place, determining a mobile number’s network based solely on its prefix isn’t always accurate. However, there are still ways to verify the current network of a number:
- Network Verification Services: Some telecom providers offer verification services. For example, you can contact Globe customer service to check a number’s network status.
- Third-Party Apps and Websites: There are apps and websites where you can input a mobile number and find out its current network. While these tools aren’t always 100% accurate due to MNP, they still offer useful guidance.
The prefix “0985” is primarily associated with Globe Telecom in the Philippines. However, with the introduction of Mobile Number Portability, it’s possible for an 0985 number to now belong to a different network. Understanding prefixes can still help you make the most of your mobile options, especially when using network-specific promotions.
As the Philippine telecom industry evolves, staying informed about prefixes, networks, and MNP is essential for getting the best communication value. Although “0985” is generally a Globe prefix, always consider the possibility of portability when trying to determine a number’s network.