Navigating SIM Card Options at Manila Airport: Unveiling Hidden Alternatives and Affordable Deals
Currently, the situation at Manila Airport regarding SIM cards and major phone companies like Globe is as follows: they only offer their highest plan, which costs 1,500 pesos for 100GB. If you plan to stay for 30 days, Globe is the more affordable option compared to Smart at the airport. However, if your stay is less than 7 days, they might present you with a hidden alternative, still priced at 1,000 pesos (18 USD) for one month. I personally experienced both scenarios, and after I had already paid, they revealed a cheaper option.
I found this whole situation to be quite ridiculous. Nevertheless, as always, Asian Insider is here to bring you the best deals available. During my search, I discovered a local company called Dito, where I purchased a 6-month package for just 9 USD, providing a total of 48GB, or 8GB per month. They have other packages available at great prices, so you can choose the one that suits your needs. Since I'll be returning to Vietnam for two months and then coming back to the Philippines for another two months, I went ahead and purchased the 6-month package for only 9 USD.
When purchasing a SIM card, it's important to bring your passport, as they will require it for identification purposes. Additionally, they may ask for proof of address and a return plane ticket. You can show these documents on your phone, and they will take a picture and upload it to register the SIM card for you. I personally had a return ticket scheduled for next week, and I had no issues buying a 6-month SIM card. It seems that they are mainly concerned with taking the picture and registering the SIM card, rather than scrutinizing the content of the documents. To provide proof of address, you can show your Airbnb booking or a confirmation from Booking.com. So remember to bring your passport, proof of address, and any necessary travel documents when purchasing a SIM card.
Updated on December 6th, 2023
I found this whole situation to be quite ridiculous. Nevertheless, as always, Asian Insider is here to bring you the best deals available. During my search, I discovered a local company called Dito, where I purchased a 6-month package for just 9 USD, providing a total of 48GB, or 8GB per month. They have other packages available at great prices, so you can choose the one that suits your needs. Since I'll be returning to Vietnam for two months and then coming back to the Philippines for another two months, I went ahead and purchased the 6-month package for only 9 USD.
When purchasing a SIM card, it's important to bring your passport, as they will require it for identification purposes. Additionally, they may ask for proof of address and a return plane ticket. You can show these documents on your phone, and they will take a picture and upload it to register the SIM card for you. I personally had a return ticket scheduled for next week, and I had no issues buying a 6-month SIM card. It seems that they are mainly concerned with taking the picture and registering the SIM card, rather than scrutinizing the content of the documents. To provide proof of address, you can show your Airbnb booking or a confirmation from Booking.com. So remember to bring your passport, proof of address, and any necessary travel documents when purchasing a SIM card.
Updated on December 6th, 2023