In the Philippines’ diverse telecommunications landscape, mobile number prefixes serve as important identifiers that connect users to their respective network providers. Among these prefixes, the 0961 What Network series stands out as one of the recognizable number ranges in the country.
If you’ve ever wondered about the network behind 0961 numbers or received calls from this prefix, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the 0961 network, its provider, and what it means for mobile users in the Philippines.
Understanding Mobile Number Prefixes in the Philippines
Before diving specifically into the 0961 prefix, it’s important to understand how the Philippine mobile numbering system works. The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) assigns specific mobile number prefixes to each telecommunications company operating in the country. These prefixes indicate the network to which a specific mobile number is assigned.
In the Philippines, mobile numbers follow a standard format:
- Domestic format: 0 + 2-digit network prefix + 7-digit subscriber number (11 digits total)
- International format: 63 + 2-digit network prefix + 7-digit subscriber number (12 digits total, replacing the leading 0 with 63, the country code for the Philippines)
The Role of Number Prefixes
Number prefixes serve several important functions in the telecommunications ecosystem:
- Network Identification: They allow users to identify which network they’re calling before making the call
- Billing and Routing: They help telecom systems route calls correctly and apply appropriate billing rates
- Promotional Targeting: Networks can target specific promotions to numbers within certain prefix ranges
- Regulatory Compliance: They help the NTC monitor and regulate the allocation of mobile numbers
The 0961 Prefix: Owned by Smart Communications
To answer the central question directly: The 0961 prefix (and its international equivalent 63961) belongs to Smart Communications, one of the Philippines’ largest telecommunications providers.
Smart Communications, a subsidiary of PLDT Inc., was assigned this prefix as part of its mobile number allocation by the NTC. The 0961 prefix joins other Smart prefixes including 0908, 0918, 0919, 0920, 0921, 0928, 0929, 0947, 0949, 0951, 0961, 0998, and 0999.
According to data from the NTC’s 2023 Numbering Plan Management report, Smart Communications maintains approximately 37% market share of mobile subscribers in the Philippines, making it one of the dominant players in the market alongside Globe Telecom.
When Was the 0961 Prefix Introduced?
Smart Communications introduced the 0961 prefix in 2018 as part of its network expansion. This prefix allocation came during a period when mobile penetration in the Philippines was rapidly increasing, necessitating new number ranges to accommodate the growing subscriber base.
Smart Communications: Network Coverage and Services
Company Background
Smart Communications was established in 1991 and has grown to become one of the Philippines’ leading mobile network operators. As a subsidiary of PLDT (Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company), Smart offers a wide range of telecommunications services including mobile voice, SMS, data, and value-added services.
Network Coverage
Smart Communications maintains extensive network coverage across the Philippines, with particular strengths in:
| Region | 4G/LTE Coverage | 5G Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Metro Manila | 98.8% | 90.2% |
| Luzon (excluding Metro Manila) | 93.5% | 63.7% |
| Visayas | 92.1% | 51.4% |
| Mindanao | 87.6% | 42.3% |
Source: PLDT-Smart Public Coverage Reports, Q4 2023
Smart Communications has invested heavily in expanding its network infrastructure, particularly its 5G capabilities. As of late 2023, Smart had deployed over 7,200 5G base stations across the country, significantly increasing its coverage compared to previous years.
Comparison with Other Providers
When compared to other major telecommunications providers in the Philippines, Smart Communications stands out in several areas:
- Network Speed: According to Ookla’s Speedtest Intelligence data for Q3 2023, Smart recorded median download speeds of 24.8 Mbps for mobile internet, slightly above the national average.
- Service Reliability: The NTC’s Network Quality Assessment report showed Smart maintaining a call drop rate of under 2%, meeting regulatory standards.
- Customer Base: With approximately 68 million subscribers as of 2023, Smart remains one of the top two mobile operators in the country.
Technical Aspects of 0961 Numbers
How Prefix Allocation Works
The NTC allocates number prefixes to telecommunications companies based on several factors:
- Subscriber Growth: Companies with rapidly expanding customer bases receive additional prefixes
- Network Capacity: Allocation considers the technical capabilities of the network
- Market Competition: Maintaining competitive balance in the telecommunications sector
- Technical Standards: Compliance with international telecommunications standards
Number Portability Considerations
With the implementation of Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in the Philippines in 2021, the significance of prefixes has somewhat changed. MNP allows subscribers to keep their mobile numbers when switching between service providers. This means that while 0961 numbers were originally assigned to Smart Communications, some of these numbers may now be connected to other networks if the subscribers chose to port their numbers.
According to the Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI), the joint venture established to implement MNP, approximately 2.8% of mobile subscribers had utilized the portability service by the end of 2023. This means that while most 0961 numbers remain with Smart, a small percentage may have migrated to other networks.
Smart Communications’ Service Offerings for 0961 Users
Prepaid vs. Postpaid Options
Smart Communications offers both prepaid and postpaid plans for users with 0961 numbers. Each option comes with its own advantages:
Prepaid Offerings:
- Smart Prepaid: Standard prepaid offering with flexible load denominations
- TNT: Budget-friendly sub-brand with competitive promo offers
- Smart Bro: Focused on mobile data for internet users
Postpaid Plans:
- Smart Signature: Premium postpaid plans with priority network access
- Smart Infinity: Exclusive high-end plans with additional perks and services
Special Promotions for Smart Numbers
Smart Communications regularly offers promotions that may be particularly relevant to users with 0961 numbers. Some of the popular offerings include:
- GIGA Stories: Social media-focused data packages
- GIGA Video: Streaming-optimized data allocations
- GIGA Games: Data packages for mobile gaming
- All Data: Pure data allocations without call and text bundles
According to Smart’s consumer behavior analysis, users with newer prefixes like 0961 tend to be more data-centric in their usage patterns, consuming an average of 8.2 GB of data monthly compared to the overall network average of 6.4 GB.
Read Also: 0970 What Network in the Philippines: A Comprehensive Guide
Verifying If a Number is on the Smart Network
Official Verification Methods
If you need to confirm whether a specific 0961 number is still on the Smart network (accounting for possible number portability), you can:
- Contact Smart Customer Service: Call 1-6-3-3 (Smart) or message through the Smart Communications official Facebook page
- Use the Smart App: The official Smart app can provide information about number ownership
- Check Recipient Network When Sending Load: When sending prepaid credits, the system will typically confirm the recipient’s network
Third-Party Verification Tools
Several third-party services can also help verify the current network of a mobile number:
- Prefix Checker Websites: Online tools that maintain updated databases of prefix allocations
- Mobile Banking Apps: Many Philippine banks display the recipient’s network when setting up transfers
- E-wallet Services: Similar to banking apps, e-wallets often identify networks when sending money
“With mobile number portability now available in the Philippines, prefix-based network identification is becoming less reliable. However, for most numbers, the original prefix allocation still accurately reflects the current service provider.” –
Edgardo Cabarios, Deputy Commissioner, NTC
Practical Applications for Users
Benefits of Knowing Your Network Provide
Understanding that your 0961 number belongs to Smart Communications provides several practical advantages:
- Optimized Promo Selection: You can choose promotions specifically designed for Smart users
- Network-Specific Services: Access to Smart-exclusive services and content
- Troubleshooting: More effective resolution of network-related issues
- Cost Management: Better planning for cross-network communications
Maximizing Smart-Specific Offers
Smart Communications provides several exclusive benefits to its subscribers:
- Smart Rewards: Loyalty program offering points for regular usage
- GigaLife App Perks: Special offers and discounts through the app
- Partner Promotions: Collaborations with retail brands and services
- Video Streaming Partnerships: Special data rates for streaming platforms
A 2023 consumer survey by market research firm Kantar found that Smart subscribers who actively used network-specific promotions saved an average of PHP 238 monthly compared to those who didn’t optimize their plans.
Cross-Network Interactions
Calling and Texting Between Networks
When communicating between different networks in the Philippines, users should be aware of the following:
| Interaction Type | Standard Rate | With Promo |
|---|---|---|
| Smart to Smart Call | PHP 6.50/minute | As low as PHP 1/minute |
| Smart to Other Networks | PHP 7.50/minute | As low as PHP 2/minute |
| Smart to Smart Text | PHP 1/SMS | Often unlimited with promos |
| Smart to Other Networks Text | PHP 1.50/SMS | Varies with promos |
Rates as of January 2024; subject to change
Data Sharing Considerations
With the implementation of the Mobile Number Portability Act, data sharing and other cross-network services have become more streamlined. However, Smart-specific services remain exclusive to users on the Smart network, regardless of their prefix.
The Future of Mobile Numbering in the Philippines
Expanding Number Capacity
As mobile penetration in the Philippines continues to grow (reaching 155% in 2023 according to the Digital 2023 Philippines report by DataReportal), the need for additional mobile prefixes becomes increasingly important. The NTC has announced plans to implement a new numbering scheme that would expand the total capacity of mobile numbers in the country.
Impact of Industry Changes
Several industry developments may affect the significance of the 0961 prefix in the future:
- Network Consolidation: Potential mergers or acquisitions could change prefix ownership
- New Market Entrants: New telecommunications providers would require their own prefix allocations
- Technology Evolution: The shift toward digital identifiers may eventually reduce the importance of traditional phone numbers
Conclusion: What 0961 Numbers Mean for Users
The 0961 prefix is firmly established as part of Smart Communications’ number range in the Philippines. While Mobile Number Portability has introduced some flexibility in this system, the vast majority of 0961 numbers remain connected to Smart’s network.
For users with 0961 numbers, this means access to Smart’s extensive network coverage, promotions, and service offerings. Understanding your network provider allows you to make more informed decisions about your mobile service, from selecting the right promotions to troubleshooting connection issues.
Whether you’re a current Smart subscriber with a 0961 number or considering obtaining one, this knowledge helps you navigate the Philippines’ complex telecommunications landscape with greater confidence.
James Henry – Writer at Lotus Magazine, providing expert mobile network guides with clarity and precision.
