All mobile numbers in the Philippines begin with some significant numbers that inform you of something — who provided you with the number, on which network the number is, and sometimes even what kind of plan it’s on. Those are mobile prefixes, and if you’re aware of them, then you’ll also know what network you’re on.
If you have ever received a call with the 0959 prefix and wondered what network 0959 is in the Philippines, then this 2025 guide is for you.
We will inform you about which carrier this prefix belongs to, how you can identify it, why there are still prefixes today, and how it affects promos, load sharing, and call rates.
What Is a Mobile Prefix
Mobile prefix is the first four digits after the zero of a Philippine mobile number.
It signifies which telecommunication provider originally assigned that number.
Example:
In 09591234567, its prefix is 0959.
They are officially assigned by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to telecommunication providers like Smart, Globe, DITO, and their subsidiaries.
They are exclusive carriers and ensure telecommunication services throughout the country are regulated.
0959 prefix belongs to Smart Communications and sub-brand TNT (Talk ‘N Text).
That is, a number with 0959 prefix was either TNT or Smart.
Unless already ported by the user to other networks under Mobile Number Portability (MNP), it remains a part of Smart’s network up to this day.
So the next time you see 0959, you could be certain that it is a Smart or TNT number.
Quick Summary
| Prefix | Original Network | Sub-Brand | Type | 5G Ready |
| 0959 | Smart Communications | TNT (Talk ‘N Text) | Prepaid | Yes |
Smart and TNT: One Family Network
Smart Communications and TNT are part of PLDT Inc., the country’s one of the largest telecom groups.
They share one common cell sites, facilities, and 5G network.
Smart is the flagship brand — postpaid, enterprise, and high-speed data.
TNT (Talk ‘N Text) is where they are anchored on value prepaid plans for mass market consumers.
So whether your SIM is Smart or TNT, if it begins with 0959, it’s on the same robust and stable network.
Why Prefixes like 0959 Still Matter in 2025
You might be thinking prefixes are already a thing of the past because promos are already so much “all-network.”
But knowing your prefix still has a bearing for several reasons.
- Prevent Inappropriate Load Transfers
A permanent transfer to the wrong carrier.
If you are aware that 0959 is Smart/TNT, you don’t waste money sending load to Globe or DITO numbers by mistake. - Have the Best Promo
There are still promos exclusively for same-network calls and texts only.
With 0959, you have the choice of enjoying the best Smart or TNT promo and make your money go a long way. - Don’t Waste More
Cross-network calls automatically consume more.
If you are certain that your friend’s number is 0959, then you can tell whether your promo is in Smart/TNT. - Business and Marketing Applications
Companies are using prefixes to filter contact lists and exclude Smart or Globe subscribers from promos. - Spam Detection
Now that you know the prefixes, you now identify numbers which are most probably spam numbers or unknown persons who are not part of your expected network.
About Smart Communications
Smart Communications is the largest Philippine telecommunications firm under PLDT Inc.
It enjoys excellent nationwide coverage and extremely fast LTE and 5G service.
Key Information About Smart
| Attribute | Details |
| Founded | 1991 |
| Parent Company | PLDT Inc. |
| Head Office | Makati City |
| Sub-Brands | TNT (Talk ‘N Text), Sun Cellular (merged) |
| Technology | LTE, 4G, and 5G |
Smart remains the innovation leader with postpaid and prepaid subscribers enjoying good connectivity, high data speeds, and extensive coverage in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
About TNT (Talk ‘N Text)
TNT is Smart’s mass market prepaid brand for everyday Filipino consumers.
It’s adored for being easy to use, budget-friendly, and value-for-money promos aplenty.
Why Filipinos Love TNT
- Affordable call and text promos
- Easy loading anywhere in the country
- Quality coverage using Smart’s network
- LTE and 5G-ready SIMs
- Edgy, youthful branding
Most 0959 numbers belong to TNT prepaid subscribers’ so it’s one of the most widely available and affordable prefixes across the nation.
Other Smart and TNT Prefixes
| Network | Prefix Examples |
| Smart | 0908, 0912, 0919, 0920, 0961, 0998 |
| TNT (Talk ‘N Text) | 0907, 0930, 0949, 0950, 0959, 0960, 0964 |
| Sun Cellular (Merged) | 0922, 0931, 0943 |
All of the above prefixes belong to Smart network family.
How People Get Confused with Prefixes Such as 0959
Prefix confusion is the order of the day because telecommunication providers release new prefixes on a regular basis.
Other than that, Mobile Number Portability (MNP) allows customers to keep their number even if they switch networks.
A 0959 number might have been initially with Smart or TNT but is somehow now with Globe or DITO.
Prefixes would only show the original carrier of the number and not the new one.
How to Know If a 0959 Number Is Still Smart or TNT
If you want to check if a 0959 number is still with Smart/TNT, do the following:
Use the Smart GigaLife App
Download via Google Play or App Store.
Dial the number you wish to check.
If it loads successfully, then it remains a Smart/TNT number.
Visit Smart’s Official Website
Visit smart.com.ph and check their prefix list or call support.
Attempt Sending a Small Load
Send ₱1 or ₱2.
If successful, then it is active on Smart/TNT.
Ask the Owner Directly
The most straightforward thing to do is to simply ask which carrier they have.
Benefits of Having a 0959 (Smart/TNT) Number
| Feature | Description |
| Wide Coverage | Nationwide coverage, even rural towns |
| High-Speed Data | 4G and 5G capable SIMs |
| Budget-friendly Promos | GigaPower, SurfSaya, UCTalk |
| Easy Re-load | Re-load using GCash, Maya, or store |
| Sturdy Call Quality | Clear call and stable connection |
0959 SIM is having the benefit of affordability and reliability on a solid network.
Smart vs Globe vs DITO: 2025 Comparison
| Feature | Smart / TNT | Globe / TM | DITO |
| Popular Prefixes | 0919, 0959, 0961, 0998 | 0917, 0956, 0977 | 0991, 0992, 0993 |
| Coverage | Countrywide | Countrywide | Metro Cities |
| 5G Service | Universal | Universal | Expanding |
| Budget Brand | TNT | TM | None |
| Best For | Signal and reliability | App-based ecosystem | Low-cost data plans |
0959 remains one of the most stable and busiest prefixes in the Philippines on Smart.
Is 0959 Prepaid or Postpaid?
A majority of the 0959 numbers are prepaid, traditionally owned by TNT.
But postpaid Smart subscribers who kept their numbers because they were originally prepaid are also enjoying a kick from this prefix.
So technically prepaid, 0959 is postpaid or prepaid on an account basis.
SIM Registration and 0959 Numbers
Under the SIM Registration Act, even 0959 numbers must register their SIMs.
Also Read: Which Network does 0960 subscribe to in the Philippines? Complete 2025 Guide (Smart or TNT)
For Smart/TNT Subscribers
Register online at smart.com.ph/simreg
Or through the Smart GigaLife App
Registration provides protection, prevents fraud, and confirms your ownership of your SIM.
Fast Facts About 0959 Prefix
| Category | Description |
| Network | Smart Communications / TNT |
| Prefix | 0959 |
| Type | Prepaid (some postpaid) |
| Coverage | Nationwide |
| Technology | LTE / 5G |
| Parent Company | PLDT Inc. |
| Launch Period | Around 2018–2019 |
The Meaning of 0959 to Filipinos
0959 represents accessibility, stability, and coverage of Smart’s network.
From telecommuting workers to web students learning online, 0959 numbers bring millions together with good service and low-cost promos.
The Future of Prefixes like 0959
While number portability exists, prefixes like 0959 remain important.
They are nothing but tags that track users to their carrier origins and assist with promo management, billing, and telecom data.
FAQs
Q1. Who owns 0959 in the Philippines?
0959 is owned by Smart Communications and subsidiary TNT (Talk ‘N Text).
Q2. Can 0959 be used on a different network?
Yes, through Mobile Number Portability, but its default carrier is Smart/TNT.
Q3. Is 0959 prepaid or postpaid?
Primarily prepaid but can be used by Smart postpaid subscribers as well.
Q4. Is 0959 5G-capable?
Yes, Smart and TNT 0959 SIMs are 4G LTE and 5G-capable.
Q5. How will I be assured that 0959 is still Smart?
Just check via the Smart GigaLife App or send a test load, however small.
With each look at a number with 0959 prefix, you are certain that it is part of the Smart/TNT family.
Although number portability permits one to switch from one network to another, prefixes like 0959 are still convenient to use in finding original carriers, avoiding promo confusion, and knowing your call and text fees.
Smart’s robust network and TNT’s price-frugal approach make 0959 a clever prefix to use — one that reaches millions of Filipinos daily, from the metro to the farthest province.