How do I call directly to the Philippines?

Calling the Philippines from the US: A Quick Guide

Reaching loved ones, business contacts, or anyone in the Philippines from the United States is straightforward, involving a specific dialing sequence. Forget complicated procedures, it all boils down to a few easy steps. This guide breaks down how to make direct calls to the Philippines quickly and efficiently.

Understanding the Number Format

International calls require a different dialing format than domestic calls. To call the Philippines, you’ll need to string together four parts:

1. The US International Access Code (011): This code signals to your phone carrier that you’re making an international call. It’s the standard prefix for international calls from the US and Canada.

2. The Philippines Country Code (63): This two-digit code identifies the Philippines as the destination country. Think of it as the Philippines’ international area code.

3. The Area Code (1-4 digits): Philippine area codes vary in length. Metro Manila, for instance, uses the area code “2,” while Cebu uses “32.” Mobile phone area codes also exist and are typically three digits. If you’re uncertain about the area code, consult an online directory or ask your contact. Don’t omit the zero preceding the area code for landlines when dialing internationally. For example, if the local number is (02) 123-4567, the ’02’ becomes just ‘2’ when dialing internationally.

4. The Local Phone Number (6-8 digits): This is the specific number of the person or business you’re trying to reach. Combine this with the area code to form the complete Philippine phone number.

Putting It All Together

Let’s say you’re calling a landline in Manila with the local number 123-4567. The dialing sequence would be:

011 + 63 + 2 + 123-4567

For a mobile phone with the number 917-123-4567, you would dial:

011 + 63 + 917 + 123-4567

Important Considerations:

• Calling Cards: Prepaid calling cards often offer competitive rates for international calls. Explore these options for potentially lower costs.

• VoIP Services: Services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook Messenger provide free or low-cost calling options over the internet. Ensure both you and the recipient have a stable internet connection for clear communication.

• Mobile Phone Plans: Check with your mobile carrier about international calling rates and packages to avoid unexpected charges. Some plans include free or discounted calls to specific countries.

By following these simple steps and considerations, staying connected with the Philippines is just a phone call away.