In the Philippines, mobile number prefixes serve as digital identifiers that connect users to specific telecommunications networks. Among these prefixes, 0945 has become a common sight on business cards, contact lists, and social media profiles across the country. “0945 What Network?” is a question many Filipinos ask when seeing this prefix. But what exactly does this prefix tell us, and why does it matter which network operates it?
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the 0945 mobile network in the Philippines, from its origins and technical aspects to practical benefits and common misconceptions. Whether you’re a Filipino resident, a business professional, or simply curious about telecommunications infrastructure, this article will provide valuable insights into how the 0945 prefix functions within the Philippines’ mobile ecosystem.
The Origins of 0945 Mobile Numbers
Historical Development of Philippine Mobile Prefixes
The Philippine telecommunications landscape has undergone significant transformation since the introduction of mobile services in the early 1990s. Initially, mobile numbers in the country followed a 7-digit format, with network identification managed through a variety of prefix codes.
Globe Telecommunications, established in 1935 as a public utility enterprise and later reorganized as Globe Telecom in 1991, introduced several prefix codes to accommodate its expanding customer base. The company launched its GSM services in 1994, making it one of the pioneers in mobile telecommunications in the Philippines.
Introduction of the 0945 Prefix
The 0945 prefix was officially allocated to Globe Telecom by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) during the mid-2000s expansion of mobile number ranges. This addition became necessary as mobile adoption rates in the Philippines skyrocketed, with the country quickly earning its nickname as the “texting capital of the world.”
According to data from the World Bank, mobile phone subscriptions in the Philippines grew from just 8.3 million in 2000 to over 110 million by 2015, necessitating the continuous addition of new mobile prefixes to accommodate this explosive growth.
The 8-Digit Transition
In October 2019, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the NTC announced a significant change: all mobile numbers would transition from 7 digits to 8 digits, effective March 2020 for Globe and Touch Mobile subscribers. This transition aimed to address the impending number shortage as mobile penetration in the Philippines approached 140% (meaning many Filipinos owned multiple SIM cards).
The migration affected millions of subscribers, with Globe and Touch Mobile adding the digit ‘8’ after the 0945 prefix for existing numbers. This expansion created room for approximately 800 million new mobile numbers in the country, ensuring sustainability for decades to come.
Globe Telecoms and 0945
Globe Telecom Profile and Market Position
Globe Telecom stands as one of the Philippines’ telecommunications giants, with a rich history dating back to 1935. As of 2024, Globe serves over 87 million mobile subscribers nationwide, making it one of the largest telecom providers in the country.
The company has consistently invested in network infrastructure, spending approximately PHP 89 billion (around $1.6 billion) in capital expenditures in 2023 alone to enhance and expand its services throughout the archipelago.
Globe’s Management of the 0945 Prefix
The 0945 mobile network prefix is primarily associated with Globe Telecom’s postpaid and prepaid services. Globe strategically allocates number blocks within this prefix based on several factors:
- Geographic distribution
- Service type (prepaid vs. postpaid)
- Promotional campaigns
- Technical routing requirements
As noted by telecommunications analyst Juan Carlos Lara in a 2022 industry report: “Globe’s management of the 0945 prefix demonstrates the strategic importance of number allocation in modern telecom operations. These numbers aren’t merely identifiers but valuable marketing and operational assets.”
Coverage and Service Quality
Globe’s 0945 numbers operate on the same network infrastructure as their other prefixes, with coverage extending to 95% of the Philippine population as of early 2025. This network includes:
- Over 10,900 cell sites nationwide
- Extensive 4G LTE coverage in 93% of municipalities
- Growing 5G infrastructure in major urban centers
- Fiber connections to over 5.3 million homes
A 2023 OpenSignal report ranked Globe’s mobile download speeds at an average of 24.7 Mbps, representing a 32% improvement over their 2020 performance. This enhancement directly benefits 0945 subscribers, who experience the same network quality as users with other Globe prefixes.
Touch Mobile (TM) and 0945
Touch Mobile: Globe’s Budget-Friendly Brand
Touch Mobile (TM) was launched by Globe Telecom in 2001 as a separate brand targeting budget-conscious consumers. While operating on the same infrastructure as its parent company, TM positions itself as an affordable alternative with simpler plans and promotions.
Despite its budget positioning, TM maintains access to Globe’s extensive network infrastructure, ensuring that 0945 TM subscribers receive comparable coverage to mainstream Globe customers, albeit with different pricing structures and promotional offerings.
TM’s Utilization of the 0945 Prefix
Touch Mobile was assigned blocks within the 0945 mobile network range to serve its growing customer base. The allocation works as follows:
- Specific number blocks within the 0945 range are dedicated to TM services
- These numbers are distinguishable in Globe’s internal systems but appear identical to outside callers
- TM and Globe subscribers within the 0945 range share the same network infrastructure
Mary Rose Salanguit, a telecommunications researcher at the University of the Philippines, explains: “The allocation of 0945 numbers to both Globe and TM represents a strategic balance between brand differentiation and infrastructure efficiency. While marketed differently, these services utilize the same robust network backbone.”
Target Demographics and Market Position
Touch Mobile primarily targets:
- Budget-conscious consumers
- Students and young professionals
- Rural communities
- Seasonal workers and those preferring prepaid services
This strategic positioning has helped Globe Telecom capture multiple market segments while maintaining operational efficiency. TM’s share of the 0945 mobile network allows it to offer distinctive services while benefiting from the parent company’s infrastructure investments.
The Technical Side: How Mobile Prefixes Work
Mobile Number Structure in the Philippines
Philippine mobile numbers follow a structured format that contains valuable information about the subscriber’s network. Understanding this structure helps clarify the role of prefixes like 0945:
| Format | Example | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 0 + 2-digit network code + 8-digit subscriber number | 0945 123 4567 | Domestic format |
| Country code + 2-digit network code + 8-digit subscriber number | +63 945 123 4567 | International format |
The Philippine numbering plan designates specific prefix ranges to each mobile operator, with regulatory oversight from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
Routing Calls and Messages Through Prefixes
When you dial a 0945 mobile number, here’s what happens:
- Your device sends the dialed number to your network provider
- The network identifies “0945” as belonging to Globe/TM
- The call is routed through interconnection points between your provider and Globe
- Globe’s systems direct the call to the specific subscriber based on the remaining digits
This routing mechanism ensures that calls and messages reach their intended recipients regardless of which network they originate from, though rates may vary for cross-network communications.
International Format (63945) vs. Local Format (0945)
The international format for Philippine mobile numbers replaces the leading “0” with the country code “63.” This distinction is crucial for several reasons:
- The “+63” country code allows international systems to route calls to the Philippines
- Mobile applications and international services typically require the +63 format
- Local calls within the Philippines traditionally use the “0” prefix format
Dr. Eduardo Santos, telecommunications engineer and consultant, notes: “The dual format system for Philippine mobile numbers reflects international standardization efforts while maintaining local dialing convenience. The 0945 mobile network can be reached internationally via 63945, ensuring global connectivity.”
Practical Benefits of Knowing Your Network
Network-Specific Promotions and Offers
Both Globe and Touch Mobile frequently offer promotions specific to their subscribers. Recognizing a 0945 number as belonging to Globe/TM can help you:
- Identify which promotional offers apply to your contacts
- Maximize savings when communicating with friends and family
- Take advantage of on-net (same network) discounts and bundles
For example, Globe’s “GoUnli45” promo offers unlimited calls and texts to fellow Globe/TM users for 1 day at ₱45, making it economical to communicate with other 0945 numbers within the same network.
Cost Differences: Within vs. Across Networks
Understanding network prefixes can lead to significant cost savings. Consider these typical rate differences:
- On-net calls (Globe to Globe/TM): Approximately ₱4.50/minute
- Off-net calls (Globe to other networks): Approximately ₱6.50/minute
- Promotional bundles: Often provide unlimited on-net communication
A 2023 consumer survey by the Philippine Statistics Authority found that Filipinos who actively manage their communications based on network awareness save an average of ₱230 monthly on mobile expenses.
Optimizing Your Mobile Plan
Knowing that 0945 mobile network numbers belong to Globe/TM allows for strategic plan selection. If most of your frequent contacts use Globe or TM (including 0945 numbers), choosing a Globe/TM plan with generous on-net benefits makes financial sense.
Consider tracking your calling patterns for one month to determine which networks you contact most frequently. Many subscribers maintain dual SIMs from different providers to optimize costs based on their communication patterns.
Common Misconceptions About 0945 Numbers
Globe vs. TM Distinction
One common misconception is that all 0945 mobile network numbers belong exclusively to either Globe or Touch Mobile. In reality, specific blocks within the 0945 range are allocated to each brand, making it impossible to distinguish between Globe and TM based solely on the 0945 prefix without additional information.
Telecommunications analyst Patricia Mendoza clarifies: “The distinction between Globe and TM within the 0945 range exists primarily in billing systems and marketing, not in the technical routing infrastructure. To the average caller, these differences are invisible.”
Network Coverage Myths
Another misconception involves network coverage differences between Globe and Touch Mobile numbers. Some subscribers believe TM’s budget positioning translates to inferior coverage. However:
- Both Globe and TM 0945 mobile network numbers operate on identical infrastructure
- Coverage differences, if any, result from plan-specific features, not the number prefix
- Network quality depends on location and infrastructure, not the specific brand associated with the 0945 number
Number Portability Implications
With the implementation of Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in September 2021, Philippine subscribers gained the ability to switch providers while keeping their existing numbers. This development has important implications for 0945 mobile network users:
- A 0945 number may no longer indicate Globe/TM service if the subscriber has ported to another provider
- Traditional prefix-based network identification is becoming less reliable
- Carrier lookup services have become increasingly important for accurate network identification
According to the Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI), over 1.3 million Filipinos had utilized mobile number portability services by the end of 2023, highlighting the growing disconnect between number prefixes and actual service providers.
Read Also: 0963 What network in the Philippines: A Complete Guide
How to Check if a Number is Globe or Touch Mobile
Official Verification Methods
To definitively determine whether a 0945 mobile number belongs to Globe, Touch Mobile, or has been ported to another network, several official verification methods exist:
- Globe’s Website and App: Globe provides a prefix checker tool in their official app that can verify current network associations.
- SMS Verification: Text “HELP” to 2882 to receive information about any Philippine mobile number’s current network.
- Customer Service: Contact Globe’s customer service at 211 from a Globe/TM number or 02-7730-1000 from other lines.
Mobile Apps and Services for Network Identification
Several third-party applications can help identify the current network of any Philippine mobile number:
- Prefix PH: A locally developed app that maintains an updated database of prefix assignments and port status
- Truecaller: Provides network information alongside caller identification
- Network Finder PH: Specializes in identifying Philippine mobile networks, including ported numbers
These services regularly update their databases to account for number portability changes, providing more reliable information than prefix-based assumptions.
Simple Prefix Reference Guide
While mobile number portability has complicated network identification, this reference guide covers the primary prefix allocations as of 2025:
Globe Telecom/Touch Mobile Prefixes:
- 0915, 0917, 0945, 0955, 0975, 0995, 0997
Smart/TNT/Sun Prefixes:
- 0908, 0918, 0919, 0920, 0921, 0928, 0929, 0947, 0949, 0951, 0961, 0998
DITO Telecommunity Prefixes:
- 0895, 0896, 0897, 0898, 0991, 0992, 0993, 0994
This guide provides a starting point, though actual network association should be verified through the official methods mentioned earlier, particularly for potentially ported numbers.
Future of Mobile Networks in the Philippines
Upcoming Changes to Mobile Prefixes
The Philippine telecommunications sector continues to evolve, with several developments on the horizon that will affect the 0945 mobile network and other prefixes:
- The NTC has allocated additional prefix ranges to accommodate network expansion
- New blocks within existing prefixes like 0945 will be assigned as subscriber numbers approach capacity
- Technical standardization efforts may eventually lead to unified handling of prefixes across networks
According to the DICT’s “Digital Philippines 2028” roadmap, additional number ranges will be allocated as the country approaches 95% smartphone penetration, expected by 2026.
Impact of Network Consolidation and Expansion
The entry of DITO Telecommunity as the Philippines’ third major telecommunications provider in 2021 has accelerated competitive dynamics in the industry. This competition has implications for 0945 mobile network subscribers:
- Enhanced service quality as Globe invests in infrastructure to maintain market position
- More competitive pricing and promotional offers across all prefixes
- Potential reallocation of number resources as market shares shift
Industry analyst Miguel Reyes notes: “Globe’s established prefixes, including 0945, represent valuable brand equity in the Philippine market. As competition intensifies, we expect to see more aggressive retention strategies targeted at these legacy number blocks.”
5G Deployment and Network Identification
The ongoing rollout of 5G technology throughout the Philippines is transforming how networks operate, with several implications for number prefixes:
- Enhanced capacity reduces pressure on numbering resources
- Advanced network technologies enable more efficient routing regardless of prefix
- Service differentiation increasingly relies on data capabilities rather than traditional voice/SMS patterns
Globe Telecom reported 5G availability in 70 cities and municipalities as of early 2025, with 0945 mobile network subscribers in these areas benefiting from speeds up to 1 Gbps under optimal conditions.
Conclusion
Key Takeaways About 0945 Mobile Numbers
The 0945 mobile network in the Philippines represents more than just a numerical prefix—it embodies the evolution of telecommunications in a nation where mobile connectivity has become fundamental to daily life. Through this comprehensive exploration, we’ve uncovered several key insights:
- The 0945 prefix primarily belongs to Globe Telecom and its subsidiary Touch Mobile
- These numbers operate on Globe’s extensive nationwide infrastructure
- The introduction and management of this prefix reflect broader patterns in telecommunications development
- Mobile Number Portability has partially decoupled prefixes from their traditional network associations
Practical Tips for Consumers
For Filipino mobile subscribers, this knowledge offers practical applications:
- Verify networks before choosing plans: If most of your contacts use 0945 or other Globe/TM numbers, consider Globe services for potential savings.
- Use verification tools: Don’t rely solely on prefixes to determine networks, especially given mobile number portability.
- Update contact preferences: Consider organizing your contacts by network rather than just name to optimize calling patterns.
- Stay informed about promotions: Networks frequently offer special rates for on-net communications, which can provide significant savings.
James Henry – Writer at Lotus Magazine, providing expert mobile network guides with clarity and precision.
