In the Philippines, mobile number prefixes serve as digital identifiers that instantly reveal which telecommunications company provides your service. If you’re wondering “0956 what network?”, numbers beginning with 0956 are connected to either Globe Telecom or its subsidiary, Touch Mobile (TM). But what exactly does this mean for you as a subscriber?
This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about the 0956 prefix, from its network affiliation to practical benefits and troubleshooting tips.
The 0956 Prefix: Network Identity Explained
When you see a mobile number beginning with 0956 in the Philippines, this indicates that the number belongs to either Globe Telecoms or Touch Mobile (TM). This prefix is part of Globe’s extensive number series, which the company has expanded over the years to accommodate its growing subscriber base.
Globe Telecom is one of the Philippines’ leading telecommunications providers, while Touch Mobile serves as Globe’s more affordable subsidiary brand. While both operate under the same network infrastructure, they target different market segments with varying service packages and pricing structures.
For international calls, the 0956 prefix converts to 63956, where “63” represents the country code for the Philippines. This format is essential when receiving calls from abroad or when Filipino users travel internationally and need to share their contact information.
According to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the regulatory body overseeing telecommunications in the Philippines, mobile number prefixes are assigned to specific networks to organize the country’s telecommunications system efficiently.
History of Globe Telecom’s Number Prefixes
Globe Telecom has been allocated various number prefixes throughout its operational history in the Philippines. The company received its first set of prefixes in the 1990s when mobile telecommunications began expanding in the country.
The 0956 prefix was introduced in the mid-2010s as part of Globe’s expansion to accommodate its growing subscriber base. Before this addition, Globe primarily operated with prefixes such as 0917, 0905, and 0906, among others.
The assignment of prefixes follows strict protocols established by the NTC. When a telecommunications company requires additional number ranges due to increased demand, they must submit a formal request to the commission. The NTC then evaluates these requests based on market needs and existing allocations before approving new prefixes.
According to data from Globe Telecom’s annual reports, the introduction of the 0956 prefix coincided with a significant subscriber growth period when the company was adding approximately 5-7 million new subscribers annually. This expansion necessitated new number ranges to ensure seamless service delivery.
Practical Applications of Knowing Your Network
Understanding that your 0956 number belongs to the Globe/TM network offers several practical advantages:
Network-Specific Promotions
Globe and Touch Mobile frequently offer exclusive promotions for their subscribers. As a 0956 user, you have access to:
- GOSAKTO promos combining calls, texts, and data
- Globe Rewards points system
- GoWiFi access in public locations
- Globe/TM-exclusive content partnerships
For instance, Globe’s GoSAKTO allows subscribers to create customized promos based on their usage patterns, with packages starting from as low as ₱20. These offers are unavailable to subscribers of other networks.
Call and Text Rate Differences
Call and text rates vary significantly depending on whether you’re connecting with someone on the same network or a different one:
| Service Type | Same Network (Globe to Globe) | Cross-Network |
|---|---|---|
| Voice Calls | ₱2.50/minute | ₱3.00/minute |
| SMS | ₱1.00/message | ₱1.50/message |
*Rates may vary based on specific promotions and plans
This difference makes it economically beneficial to know which numbers belong to your network, especially for regular contacts.
Data Packages
Globe and Touch Mobile offer network-specific data packages that may provide better value than universal data plans. For example:
- GoSURF50 offers 1GB of data valid for 3 days
- GOTSCOMBODD90 provides 2GB data plus unlimited texts to Globe/TM for 7 days
- GOUNLI20 gives unlimited texts to Globe/TM plus 15 minutes of calls and 20MB of data
According to Globe’s usage statistics, subscribers can save an average of 30% on communication costs by optimizing their plans based on network-specific offerings.
How to Verify if a 0956 Number is Globe or Touch Mobile
While all 0956 numbers operate under the Globe network infrastructure, they can be specifically assigned to either Globe Telecom or Touch Mobile. Here’s how to determine which subsidiary your number belongs to:
Official Verification Methods
- SMS Verification: Text INFO to 8080 from your 0956 number to receive details about your account.
- GlobeOne App: Download the official Globe application, register your 0956 number, and view your account details.
- Customer Service: Dial *143# from your 0956 number to access Globe’s self-service menu.
- Globe Website: Visit the Globe website and use the account checker tool by entering your 0956 number.
Technical Differences Between Globe and TM Assignments
While both operate under the same network, there are some technical distinctions:
- SIM Card Branding: Globe SIMs typically have blue branding, while TM SIMs feature orange branding.
- Default Balances: New Globe numbers often come with different default services activated compared to TM numbers.
- Service Access Codes: Some service codes differ between Globe and TM despite sharing the same prefix.
Common Misconceptions
Many users incorrectly believe that:
- All 0956 numbers are exclusively Globe (not TM)
- The prefix alone determines all available services
- All Globe/TM prefixes have identical features
In reality, while the network infrastructure is shared, service offerings can vary significantly between Globe and Touch Mobile brands, even with the same 0956 prefix.
Mobile Number Portability and Its Impact
The Mobile Number Portability Act (Republic Act No. 11202), implemented in 2021, has significantly changed how prefixes relate to networks in the Philippines. This law allows subscribers to keep their numbers when switching providers.
How Number Portability Affects 0956 Numbers
If a subscriber with a 0956 number decides to switch from Globe/TM to another provider like Smart or DITO, they can now retain their 0956 number despite changing networks. This development means that while historically all 0956 numbers belonged exclusively to Globe/TM, this is no longer guaranteed.
According to the Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI), the joint venture implementing number portability, approximately 3% of Filipino mobile users had ported their numbers within the first year of implementation, with expectations of growth as awareness increases.
Checking if a 0956 Number Has Been Ported
To verify if a 0956 number has been ported to another network:
- Network Prefix Check Apps: Applications like “Prefix PH” can identify the current network of any Philippine mobile number.
- Call Test: The ring tone when calling a number often differs between networks.
- Official Verification: Send an SMS to 922 with the format “MNP CHECK [10-digit mobile number]” to verify a number’s current network.
- Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. Website: The official MNP implementation body provides a verification tool on their website.
Comparison with Other Network Prefixes
Understanding how 0956 relates to other prefixes helps put your number in context within the broader Philippine telecommunications landscape:
Major Philippine Network Prefixes
| Network | Common Prefixes |
|---|---|
| Globe/TM | 0917, 0905, 0906, 0915, 0916, 0956, 0975, 0976, 0977 |
| Smart/TNT | 0908, 0918, 0919, 0920, 0921, 0928, 0929, 0949 |
| DITO | 0895, 0896, 0897, 0898 |
| Sun (now under Smart) | 0922, 0923, 0924, 0925, 0931, 0932 |
This diversity of prefixes reflects the competitive telecommunications market in the Philippines, which according to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) serves over 150 million mobile subscriptions in a country with approximately 110 million people.
Regional Distribution Patterns
While there is no official geographic allocation of prefixes within the Philippines, certain patterns have emerged over time:
- The 0956 prefix shows strong adoption in the Visayas and Mindanao regions
- Urban centers like Metro Manila have a more even distribution of prefixes
- Some rural areas show higher concentrations of specific prefixes based on which provider established service there first
These patterns result from network expansion strategies rather than official designation, with providers often introducing new prefixes in areas of high subscriber growth.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with 0956 Numbers
0956 subscribers occasionally encounter specific issues related to the Globe/TM network. Here are solutions to common problems:
Connection Problems
If you experience poor signal or connectivity issues with your 0956 number:
- Check Coverage Areas: Globe maintains an online coverage map showing network strength across the Philippines. Urban areas typically have stronger coverage than remote rural locations.
- Network Mode Selection: On your phone, try switching between different network modes (4G/LTE, 3G, 2G) to find the most stable connection in your area.
- Device Registration: Ensure your device is properly registered with Globe by texting REG to 8080.
According to Globe’s network statistics, they currently cover approximately 95% of the Philippine population with their combined 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE networks, with ongoing expansion of their 5G coverage in major urban centers.
Signal Coverage Areas
Globe and TM’s coverage varies by region:
- Metro Manila and other urban centers: Strong 4G/LTE and expanding 5G coverage
- Provincial capitals and tourist destinations: Generally reliable 4G coverage
- Rural areas: Predominantly 3G coverage, with variable reliability
- Remote islands and mountainous regions: Limited coverage, often 2G only
For 0956 users experiencing persistent signal problems, Globe offers network signal boosters for residential use, starting at approximately ₱2,500.
Customer Service Channels
When troubleshooting fails, 0956 users can access support through:
- Globe Hotline: Dial 211 from your Globe/TM number
- Social Media: Official Facebook and Twitter support channels
- Globe Stores: Visit physical service centers (over 250 nationwide)
- GlobeOne App: Built-in support features and live chat options
According to customer satisfaction surveys, digital support channels typically offer faster resolution times (averaging 24-48 hours) compared to phone support (which can take 3-5 business days for complex issues).
Conclusion: What Your 0956 Number Means for You
Your 0956 mobile number connects you to the Globe/TM network infrastructure, offering specific advantages and considerations:
- Network-specific benefits: Access to Globe/TM-exclusive promotions and services
- Cost optimization: Potential savings when communicating with other Globe/TM subscribers
- Service ecosystem: Integration with Globe’s broader product offerings, including home internet and entertainment packages
The future outlook for Globe/TM numbering systems suggests continued expansion, with the NTC regularly approving new prefixes to accommodate subscriber growth. Additionally, the ongoing implementation of Mobile Number Portability gradually divorces the traditional connection between prefixes and specific networks.
For 0956 users, maximizing your subscription value comes from understanding your network affiliation and taking advantage of the specific offerings available to Globe/TM subscribers. Whether you’re using a postpaid or prepaid plan, knowing your network opens doors to optimized communication strategies and cost savings.
FAQs About 0956 what network
How do I transfer load to a 0956 number?
To share load with another Globe/TM number, dial *143# and select “Share-A-Load” or text SHARE [amount] [10-digit number] to 2 for amounts between ₱1 and ₱150.
What are the international calling rates for 0956 numbers?
International call rates from 0956 numbers vary by destination, ranging from ₱8/minute to ₱40/minute. Globe’s IDD services can be accessed by dialing 00 + country code + area code + telephone number.
What special features are available to Globe/TM subscribers?
Globe and TM subscribers enjoy access to:
- Globe Rewards loyalty program
- GCash mobile wallet integration
- GoWiFi access points nationwide
- Content partnerships with platforms like Netflix, Spotify, and Disney+
What are the differences between prepaid and postpaid 0956 accounts?
Prepaid 0956 accounts offer flexibility with no monthly commitments, while postpaid plans provide consistent monthly data allocations, priority network access during congestion periods, and often include device subsidies. Postpaid plans typically start at ₱599 monthly, while prepaid options allow spending as little as ₱20 for short-term promos.
James Henry – Writer at Lotus Magazine, providing expert mobile network guides with clarity and precision.
