Posted by admin
December 9th, 2009 
4 Comments
Tourist in the Philippines: How do I get a wireless phone to use?
David G asked:
Hello
In the coming weeks I’ll be travelling to the Philippines. I’m assuming that obtaining a cell phone is as easy as going to mall and buying one from a shop. I’ve never used a GSM phone before. Are they very expensive? Also, if I’m not mistaken, they come with a SIM card too, correct? Is the prepaid airtime built into the SIM or do I have to buy a separate prepaid card?
Thank you
I currently don’t own a cell phone.
If you have ATt Wireless, you can most likely use your own phone but you need to buy a SIM card to use over there, and just have minutes loaded into it make sure you keep your original SIM card put safely away. I have a Motorola V550 and it worked perfect, but my PANTECH 300 did not work over there, even with the local SIM card. My daughter is vacationing there for a month and she is taking my Motorola V550 to use while she’s in there. In case your phone does not accept the SIM card, just buy an inexpensive phone over there and just keep it for when you visit next time. Don’t buy an expensive phone I have known people who got mugged or hurt because someone tried to steal their flashy and expensive phone. Good luck
US cell phones use a different frequency and are locked into providers unlike the rest of the world. For about $10 you can have a US phone unlocked here. You can purchase an unlocked tri or quad band phone in the US to bring or simply buy a phone anywhere here in Philippines for $20 or more. Smart, Globe and Sun are the 3 cell service providers. Sim cards can be purchased with a load but generally come less than $1. Loads can be purchased nearly anywhere in the city and online at ebay.com in increments ranging from 10p to 1000p and expiring in 1 to 90 days.
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Why do you have to wait till you get there, get a local Philippines cell phone service even before you leave from RebelFone: and stay connected affordably.