Filipino phone numbers all arrive prefaced. The prefix is the first four numbers after the zero, and it shows who the telecommunication firm originally owned the number. That is why it is better for Filipinos to ask: what network is 0933 in the Philippines?
This article talks about what network 0933 belongs to, why prefixes are still important, and how you can find out if a 0933 number is still in the same carrier today.
What Is a Mobile Prefix?
A mobile prefix is the initial sequence of all mobile phone numbers. Examples include 0933, 0917, 0920, 0956, and 0998. The initial four numbers indicate which company initially issued the SIM card.
Each Philippines telecom operator has its own distinctive prefixes. For instance:
- Globe numbers typically start with 0917, 0956, 0963, or 0997
- Smart numbers typically start with 0918, 0920, 0961, or 0998
- TNT, Smart’s value brand, uses Smart’s prefixes such as 0930, 0949, and 0989
- DITO numbers use the 0991, 0992, or 0993 prefixes
- Sun Cellular, which was merged into Smart, used to use prefixes such as 0922, 0923, and 0931
So when you see 0933, it means a specific company.
0933 belongs to Sun Cellular (Now Smart)
The prefix 0933 once belonged to Sun Cellular. Sun was one of the leading telecommunication firms in the Philippines because it offered very cheap unlimited call and text promos.
Sun was, nonetheless, acquired by Smart Communications. Today, the number 0933 is still used, but they originate from the Smart network.
What this implies is that whenever you see 0933, you can now consider it a Sun prefix of Smart nowadays.
Why it Still Pays to Remember the Network
There are those who would say that prefixes don’t matter anymore since promos nowadays now cover all networks. But prefixes like 0933 still matter to know because:
- There are still certain promos that are still limited to same-network calls and messages
- Cross-network calls and texts still cost more than the standard rate
- Prepaid load transfer is more risky if you are not familiar with the network
- It helps you decide on what promo best fits your usage
So even during the new all-net times, prefixes like 0933 still hold.
Sun Cellular and the 0933 Prefix
Prior to Smart integration, Sun Cellular was famously known for its affordable promos. Students, employees, and families loved Sun because it had unlimited text and call packages.
The 0933 prefix was one of Sun’s iconic numbers. Tens of millions of Filipinos used the 0933 numbers for:
- Sun-to-Sun unlimited texts
- Value call packs
- Low-end internet plans
Even today, many Filipinos still keep their old 0933 numbers for personal and business purposes.
Other Sun Prefixes
Other than 0933, Sun Cellular also employed a large number of other prefixes. Some of them are:
- 0922
- 0923
- 0931
- 0932
- 0942
- 0943
All of these now belong to Smart Communications because Sun was absorbed by Smart. So if you see these, these are originally Sun but now operate on Smart’s network.
Why Filipinos Become Confused with Prefixes
It is not that hard for Filipinos to become confused with prefixes like 0933. There are two primary reasons why.
- New prefixes keep trickling in
While telcos are getting new subscribers, they continue to introduce new number batches. Far too many prefixes nowadays that one cannot memorize them.
- Mobile Number Portability (MNP)
MNP enables one to shift to a different network without the number changing. A sample is a 0933 number that may transfer from Smart to Globe or DITO. The prefix remains 0933, but the present network may be different.
This is why the original network is written in prefix terms but not necessarily today’s.
How to Verify if 0933 is Still with Smart
If you wish to verify if a 0933 number is still with Smart, the following are simple procedures:
- Check current up-to-date prefix lists online – There are websites which post lists of current prefixes.
- Use Smart’s GigaLife app – The application lets you reload or verify numbers. If the number is defective, the app will notify you.
- Ask the owner directly – The simplest approach is to ask the individual if he/she is still a Smart subscriber.
- Send a small load first – As a precaution, send a small test load first before sending more.
These tactics will help you avoid getting it wrong and being caught up in surprise bills.
Smart’s Role in Philippines Telecom
Smart Communications is one of the biggest telecom companies in the country, together with Globe. Smart enjoys solid mobile coverage nationwide and invested in LTE and 5G.
When Smart bought Sun Cellular, millions of Sun subscribers, including the 0933 users, were integrated into Smart’s network. This further placed Smart in a stronghold position in the Philippines.
Reminders for Smart and Non-Smart Subscribers
If you are a Smart or TNT subscriber:
- Calling and texting 0933 numbers are free or via promos.
- Selling loads to 0933 numbers is safe without cross-network charges.
- If you are a Globe or DITO subscriber
- Double check if your promo has Smart numbers before calling or texting 0933.
- Not covered, could be billed separately.
General tip: If often you call other network people, go for all-network promos.
The Future of Prefixes
The Philippines telecoms industry keeps on growing. With more people buying smartphone units and SIM cards, telcos like Smart, Globe, and DITO will keep on giving out new prefixes.
But not the ordinary prefixes like 0933. Filipinos keep numbers for decades because these are connected to:
- Family and friends
- Work and business
- School and college
- Social media handles
- Online banking and mobile apps
That is why numbers like 0933 will persist for centuries.
FAQs
What network is 0933 in the Philippines?
0933 used to be a Sun Cellular prefix but now belongs to Smart Communications.
Is a 0933 number ported to another network?
Yes. Since Mobile Number Portability, 0933 numbers can be ported to Globe or DITO but the prefix remains 0933.
Is 0933 prepaid or postpaid?
Prepaid is the majority of 0933 numbers but some are also postpaid.
Will it be more expensive to call a 0933 number when calling using Globe or DITO?
That will be dependent upon your promo. Some promos charge across all networks, while some charge extra for cross-network calls.
What are other Sun prefixes other than 0933?
Other Sun prefixes are 0922, 0923, 0931, 0932, 0942, and 0943.
Why should I memorize prefixes like 0933?
It prevents load sending errors, keeps you from paying unnecessary fees, and reminds you of the original network.
Is 0933 LTE and 5G enabled?
Yes. It is not the prefix but your coverage area, SIM, and phone that decide Internet speed.
Can I know if a 0933 number is still a Smart?
You can try using the GigaLife app, crosschecking online lists, or simply asking the owner of the number.
If you look at a number which begins with 0933, you already know that it is a Sun prefix which is now owned by Smart Communications. Prefixes might be small, but they are still helpful in recognizing networks, avoiding loading errors if you will send load, and in keeping track of mobile expenses.
0933 is still a working prefix employed by thousands of Filipinos on a daily basis. Despite number portability and all-network promos, prefixes such as 0933 are still required to identify.
As the Philippine telecommunication industry keeps growing, numbers such as 0933 will be present in everyday life.