SIM registration in the Philippines (RA 11934): rules for every network
Republic Act 11934, the SIM Registration Act, took effect in December 2022. Every new SIM must be registered before it can be used, and every SIM active at the time had to be registered by the extended deadline of 25 July 2023 or be deactivated. Registration is free, done once per SIM, and tied to a government ID.
What you need
- The phone with the SIM inserted (a one-time code is sent to it).
- One valid government ID: PhilSys ID, passport, driver’s licence, UMID, SSS, PRC, postal ID, voter’s ID, senior citizen or PWD card, or an NBI clearance.
- A selfie with the ID, taken inside the registration portal.
- For minors: a parent or guardian registers on their behalf with the guardian’s ID.
- For foreigners: passport plus proof of address, and tourist SIMs are limited to 30 days of validity.
Where each network registers
| Network / brand | Where |
|---|---|
| Globe, TM | Globe SIM registration portal or the GlobeOne app; see Globe steps |
| GOMO | GOMO app |
| Smart, TNT, Sun | Smart SIM registration portal or the GigaLife app; see Smart steps |
| DITO | DITO app; see DITO steps |
Not sure which network a SIM is on? Check its prefix in the directory first, then use the matching portal.
What registration does and does not do
It links the SIM to an identified person, which is meant to deter scam texting. It does not make your number public, does not require re-registration after porting (the new network registers the new SIM), and does not affect existing load or promos. Registration data is held by the operator, not published.
Red flags
Registration never asks for a fee, a bank login, a one-time password from another service, or a link sent by SMS. Genuine portals are on the operators’ own domains and apps. If a message claims your SIM will be deactivated unless you click a link, it is a scam.
Is SIM registration still required?
Yes. Every new SIM must be registered before activation.
Can I register without a phone?
No. A code is sent to the SIM during registration.
Do I need to re-register after porting?
No. The network you moved to registers your new SIM as part of the port.
How do I check if my SIM is registered?
Through your network’s app or by dialling the network menu; each operator shows registration status.
Read next
On-net vs off-net: what it costs to call or text another network
Why a Globe-to-Smart call costs more than Globe-to-Globe, how promos define "all-net", and how to check before you dial.
How to check which network a Philippine number is on (4 methods)
The prefix answers most cases in two seconds. For ported numbers you need one of the three live checks below.
What do DITO numbers start with? 089X and 099X explained
DITO uses 0895-0898 and 0991, 0993, 0994. Here is why the 089 range exists and which 099X blocks are DITO.