If you have a smartphone from a local telco that’s SIM-locked, you can have your device unlocked by your telco.
This is in compliance with the NTC MC No. 01-05-2019 from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) that mandates Public Telecommunications Entities (PTEs) to unlock mobile phones and devices (aka to have it “open line”) subject to implementing rules and regulations.
Unlocking your phone means that you can use it with any SIM card from any network, as long as the phone is compatible with the network’s frequency and technology. This gives you more flexibility and freedom to choose the best plan and service.
The process of unlocking your phone varies depending on the telco and the type of subscription you have. Unlocking is also free of charge. Here are the general steps and requirements for each telco:
Smart Communications
For postpaid subscribers, you can call the hotline or visit a nearby center and request to unlock your phone, provided that your subscription is already out-of-contract (usually after two years), and all remaining plan and device amortization charges have been settled.
If you are still under contract, you can end your current subscription and pay the pre-termination fee to have your device unlocked.
For prepaid subscribers, you can request to unlock the device you availed from Smart as a prepaid kit 24 months from the purchase date by providing a valid proof-of-purchase or Official Receipt (OR) and the device’s IMEI number.
Smart Bro Prepaid Pocket WiFi devices, on the other hand, are also qualified to be unlocked 24 months after the purchase date based on your OR. You will need to provide your device’s IMEI number. Prepaid subscribers will also be asked to provide valid proof-of-purchase or an OR.
Globe Telecom
For postpaid subscribers, there is no need to request for unlocking. Devices will be unlocked automatically after contract expiry.
If you are still under contract, you can end your current subscription and pay the pre-termination fee to have your device unlocked.
For prepaid customers, the requirements for handset unlocking are the IMEI of the Globe-provided handset availed as a prepaid phone kit and your active Globe mobile number. You can call the hotline or go to Globe stores to have your devices unlocked.
DITO Telecommunity
At the time of this article, DITO does not specifically offer services to unlock SIM-locked phones. Especially since their Postpaid plans were newly launched. However, it’s safe to assume that the unlocking service is or will be available since it’s mandated by the NTC.
In DITO’s Terms and Conditions, it was specified that “Some devices may be SIM-locked to the DITO Network.” And that they “may reverse the SIM-lock upon request, but only upon presentation of the Official Receipt for the device bundle and the device’s IMEI number.”
Why unlock your SIM-locked phone
Unlocking your phone has several advantages, such as:
- You can switch to a different network that offers better coverage, speed, or price in your area.
- You can use your phone abroad with a local SIM card and avoid roaming charges.
- You can sell your phone at a higher value or give it to someone who can use it with any network.
- You can have more choices and control over your mobile experience.
Featured image: Unsplash
