The Philippines and its telcos are finally implementing Mobile Number Portability. But how are you going to do it? Here’s a Guide on how to switch networks with Mobile Number Portability
Just a quick background, Mobile Number Portability (MNP) program complies with RA 11202, which is the government’s strategy for improving telecom services in the country.
The Mobile Number Portability service, which allows users to keep their numbers for free when changing networks, is now available.
Before we start the guides on switching to another network, here are some things you should know.
What is the difference between Internal and External Porting?
Internal porting means moving only within your same network and may take these forms:
- Smart Postpaid to Smart Prepaid
- Smart Prepaid to TNT
- Globe Prepaid to TM
Etc.
External porting means bringing your number from a different network or vice versa and may take these forms:
- Smart Prepaid to Globe Prepaid
- Globe Prepaid to DITO Prepaid
- DITO Prepaid to Smart Prepaid
Etc.
What is the eligibility to switch Network with Mobile Number Portability?
- Your mobile number must be active.
- Your mobile number has no unpaid account charges.
- Your mobile number is not part of any product or service bundle.
- Your mobile number must not be the primary or principal holder of multiple accounts.
- Your mobile number must not have a pending transfer of mobile number ownership request.
- Your mobile number has not been applied for the MNP within the last 60 days.
- Your mobile number is not associated with any fraudulent activity.
- Your mobile number is not prohibited from porting by a court of law
- For DITO, You must have a DIT0-compatible phone
- For DITO, You must be within the DIT0-coverage areas
- For Globe, You must be fully paid on your postpaid bill
What are the requirements to switch Network with Mobile Number Portability?
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of Mobile Ownership.
- Unique Subscriber Code (USC)
- This is a 9-digit code issued by your current network provider to start the porting process
- This serves as a clearance that your account is free from unpaid fees and balances.
- This is valid for fifteen (15) days upon the date of issue.
How to switch to Globe Postpaid or TM from Globe Prepaid or vice versa and from another network to Globe Prepaid or Postpaid?
Note: Make sure your mobile number is eligible. See if you can switch networks with the checklist above.
How to Apply for Internal Porting (Globe Prepaid, Globe Postpaid, TM)
For Prepaid and Postpaid customers:
- Log in to your GlobeOne account, and go to Help Center.
- Scroll down and select Switch My Number.
- Select the brand you’ll be switching to.
- Read the instructions on how porting works, then Continue.
- Read important reminders, and click I agree.
- Enter the 6-digit verification code to verify your account.
- You’ll be redirected to Globe Shop to choose a plan. Fill out the digital application form to submit the request.
- Once ported or switched, you’ll be advised to update your GlobeOne account to the new brand.
- You can now use GlobeOne as a postpaid Subscriber.
Prepaid and Postpaid customers may also apply for internal porting via Globe Store and their Platinum Relationship Manager.
For Globe Business and Globe myBusiness customers:
Globe myBusiness
– Via Hotline: 121 (Prepaid to Postpaid)
– Via Chat (Postpaid to Prepaid)
– Via Account Manager for managed accounts
Globe Business
– Via Hotline: 7730-1288/2199 or 7730-1999
– Via Corporate Account Managers
How to Apply for External Porting (subscriber from other networks)
You may switch your number to Globe Prepaid/TM in four easy steps:
- Prepare your requirements. Make sure that you’re out of contract and you have your Unique Subscriber Code (USC) on hand. To request for a USC, text USC to 5050 using your existing mobile number.
- Fill out the application form at https://new.globe.com.ph/port-number. Make sure to complete all details required to switch your current number to Globe Prepaid/TM. We’ll let you know if you’re eligible to switch within 48 hours after submitting your application.
- Wait for your Globe Prepaid/TM MNP SIM. Once your application is approved, Globe will deliver your free MNP SIM (within 3 days for customers in Metro Manila, or within 7 days for customers everywhere else).
- Activate your new Globe Prepaid/TM SIM. Enter your 6-digit Prepaid Porting Code after inserting your new Globe Prepaid/TM MNP SIM into your device. To enjoy your new service, make sure to download the New GlobeOne app!
How to switch to Smart Postpaid or Smart Prepaid from TNT Prepaid or vice versa and from another network to Smart Prepaid or Postpaid?
Note: Make sure your mobile number is eligible. See if you can switch networks with the checklist above.
Internal Porting (Existing Smart, TNT, and Sun subscribers)
- Visit the nearest Smart Store and apply for internal porting.
- Submit the required documents for your application.
- Prepare to receive notification after successful MNP process and new account activation.
External Porting Interested (subscriber from other networks)
- Apply for MNP at your current network provider and submit the required documents to get your Unique Subscriber Code (USC).
- Present your USC to your preferred network provider and complete the steps for a new account subscription.
- Prepare to receive notification after successful MNP process and new account activation.
Once your MNP application is received and confirmed by your preferred network provider, the activation process will take about 24 to 48 hours.
How to switch to DITO from Smart or Globe Prepaid?
Note: Make sure your mobile number is eligible. See if you can switch networks with the checklist above.
- Visit any of DITO Experience Stores or download the DITO App.
- Sign up for MNP from your current network provider and submit the required documents to receive your Unique Subscriber Code.
- Wait for the transfer to be completed.
How to switch from DITO Prepaid to DITO Postpaid and vice versa
Internal porting is not yet available since DITO doesn’t have a postpaid service yet.
How to switch to GOMO from Globe, Smart, or DITO?
Mobile Number Portability is not yet available for GOMO. We will update you as soon as possible when MNP For GOMO is available.
Question and Answer
Can I switch back to my original network?
There is no limit on the amount of times you can apply for number porting, but you may only be able to apply again 60 days after your last successful porting activation.
Is there a charge when switching the network with MNP?
None. This service is completely free of charge.
How to get Unique Subscriber Code (USC)?
When you apply for MNP, your current network will provide you with a 9-digit code known as the USC. External porting necessitates its use (i.e switching to DITO from Globe). Obtaining the code indicates that you are now ready to transfer networks. To obtain the code, contact your network’s customer service or visit the local branch.
What happens to my load and other existing promos when I switch networks?
When you transfer networks, you will lose all of your existing promo subscriptions, prepaid load balances, roll-over data, value-added services, and add-ons.
If you have any queries, please leave those in the comments section below and we will answer immediately.