Ruth Haines
If you're travelling to Cebu, Philippines, you may want to consider purchasing a local SIM card to stay connected. While you can use your existing SIM card, roaming charges may apply, and it is generally more cost-effective to purchase a local SIM. At Mactan Cebu Airport, you can easily find several options for purchasing a SIM card from major telecom companies like Globe and Smart. These companies offer various packages with different data allowances and validity periods. You can also purchase SIM cards from convenience stores within the airport, such as 7-Eleven and Mini Stop. It's important to have a valid government-issued ID, a compatible phone, and cash in local currency when buying a SIM card. Additionally, you may want to explore the option of eSIMs, which offer hassle-free connectivity without the need for physical SIM card swaps.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| SIM card availability | SIM cards can be purchased at Mactan Cebu Airport, Cebu International and Domestic Terminal, and NAIA (T1, T3, T4). |
| SIM card providers | Globe, Smart, TNT, TM, SUN, DITO, GOMO, and Nomad. |
| SIM card types | Prepaid, postpaid, eSIM, and tourist SIM cards. |
| SIM card costs | Tourist SIM cards are free. Prepaid SIM cards range from PHP 20 to PHP 40. Prepaid load cards are available in denominations of PHP 100, PHP 300, and PHP 500. A 1GB data package typically costs PHP 50 (US$1). |
| SIM card validity | Tourist SIM cards are valid for a specified duration, typically ranging from seven days to one month. Prepaid SIM card validity can be extended by purchasing additional loads or promotional offers. |
| Payment methods | Most airport sellers and operator stores accept cash payments in Philippine Pesos. Some may also accept credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. |
| Requirements | A valid ID, such as a passport, driver's license, or any government-issued photo ID. An unlocked and compatible phone. |
| Alternatives | Using an eSIM or a foreign SIM card with roaming enabled. |
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What You'll Learn
Where to buy SIM cards in Cebu Airport
If you're travelling to Cebu, you may want to consider purchasing a local SIM card to stay connected during your trip. Luckily, Cebu Airport offers several options for buying a SIM card upon arrival. Here are some places where you can buy one:
Globe and Smart Kiosks
Globe and Smart are two major telecom companies in the Philippines that offer a variety of SIM card packages with different data allowances and validity periods. You can find their kiosks airside on the second floor across from Gates 10-15 in the airport. These kiosks may be closed during late-night arrivals, but you can also check the shopping mall the next day for these providers' kiosks.
Convenience Stores
If you prefer a more casual approach, you can purchase a SIM card from convenience stores located within the airport, such as 7-Eleven and Mini Stop. These stores often have SIM cards available for sale, but the availability may vary depending on the time of your arrival.
Airport Booths and Stores
According to some travellers, there are booths and stores inside the airport that sell SIM cards. However, be cautious of stalls selling Smart Rocket SIM cards, as they may offer less favourable deals. It is recommended to research and compare different options before making a purchase.
ESIMs
If convenience and hassle-free connectivity are important to you, consider purchasing an eSIM before your trip. eSIMs can be bought online and activated before you land, ensuring immediate access to data and calls. They are also typically cheaper than physical SIM cards sold at the airport.
Remember to have a valid ID, a compatible phone, and some local currency (Philippine Pesos) or a credit card when purchasing a SIM card. Enjoy your stay in Cebu!
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SIM card costs
Cebu Airport (also known as Mactan Cebu Airport) has several options for purchasing a SIM card. The three major telecom companies in the Philippines—Globe, Smart, and DITO—are all represented at the airport.
Globe
You can purchase a Globe SIM pack at the airport's Globe booths. The SIM pack is free but you will need to purchase a mobile data plan. You can buy a Traveller SIM for P40, which gives you 35 free SMS to all networks. For more credit, you can buy a load in denominations of P100, P300, and P500. The Globe Traveller SIM lets you make calls abroad for as low as $0.40/minute and access 4G LTE speed up to 42 Mbps.
Smart
Smart offers a variety of packages with different data allowances and validity periods. You can get a free Tourist SIM upon arrival at the airport. Smart also offers the Magic Data+ 749 plan, which gives you 48GB of open data, 600 minutes of calls, and 600 texts to all networks, with no expiry time. However, be careful as some Smart stalls have been known to sell the Smart Rocket SIM card for P1500 or more.
DITO
DITO has the best rates, but not all areas have good network signals and not many phones are fully supported.
Prepaid SIM cards
Prepaid SIM cards are the most common option for travellers as they offer flexibility in terms of usage and cost. You can choose from various denominations and validity periods. Most prepaid SIM cards don’t require activation, so you can use them right away. You can top up your prepaid SIM card at various locations within the airport, such as convenience stores or authorized counters. You can buy a "load" for at least P10, and a 1GB data package is usually priced at Php50 (US$1).
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eSIMs
Cebu Airport offers a range of SIM card options, including prepaid and tourist SIM cards. While physical SIM cards are readily available at the airport, eSIMs are a more convenient option, providing hassle-free connectivity throughout your trip.
When purchasing an eSIM, it is important to ensure that your device is carrier-unlocked and compatible with the eSIM provider's network. Additionally, keep in mind that some eSIM plans are data-only, so if you require voice calls and SMS, confirm the availability of these services before purchasing.
Compared to physical SIM cards, eSIMs offer a seamless digital solution. You can purchase an eSIM in advance or upon arrival at your destination, and the activation process is straightforward. Simply scan or enter the provided QR code to install the eSIM, and you'll be connected without the need to visit airports or stores.
By choosing an eSIM, you can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity during your vacation in Cebu and throughout the Philippines. With instant activation and unlimited data options, eSIMs provide a convenient and reliable solution for travellers seeking hassle-free digital connectivity.
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Tourist SIM cards
Cebu is known as the land of the mobile phone, and it is ridiculously easy to get a SIM card in the Philippines. You can buy one at airport kiosks, seaport counters, convenience stores, mini shops, street vendors, or wherever there is a Globe, Smart, TNT, TM, or SUN advertisement banner.
If you're a tourist visiting Cebu, you might be interested in special tourist SIM cards that come with additional perks such as free calls or texts to other countries or discounted rates for local attractions. These cards are usually valid for a specific duration, ranging from seven days to a month. You can inquire about tourist SIM card options at the counters or stores. Tourist SIM cards are usually free, but you need to purchase a load to avail of a mobile data plan. You can buy a load in denominations of P100, P300, and P500. It's ready to use with no activation required and is valid for three months.
At Mactan Cebu Airport, Globe and Smart offer a variety of packages with different data allowances and validity periods. You can find them airside on the second floor across from Gates 10-15. You can also purchase a SIM card from convenience stores located within the airport, such as 7-Eleven and Mini Stop.
It's worth noting that the availability of SIM cards may vary depending on the time of your arrival. If you arrive late at night, some SIM shops in the airport may be closed. In that case, you can opt for an eSIM, which you can purchase and activate before you leave for your trip, ensuring you have internet access as soon as you land. You can also buy an eSIM from Smart and Globe online.
Make sure you have cash (local currency) on hand, as hardly anywhere takes card payments. You will also need a valid ID, such as a passport, driver's license, or any government-issued ID with your name and photo. Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the network frequencies used in the Philippines.
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Registering your SIM card
If you are a tourist visiting Cebu, you can purchase a special tourist SIM card that comes with additional perks such as free calls or texts to other countries or discounted rates for local attractions. These cards are usually valid for a specific duration, ranging from seven days to a month.
SIM card registration in the Philippines is required by law. Under the SIM Card Registration Act of the Philippines (Republic Act No. 11934), all Philippine subscriber identity module (SIM) cards must be registered. The SIM owner’s personal information is attached to the registration and acts as its unique identifier. This SIM card registration policy covers all individuals—including foreigners and corporate entities—using SIM cards bought in the Philippines for mobile phones and modems.
Registration is free and can be done online. You can visit your telco's secure SIM card registration online platform to complete your SIM card registration. Just fill out the registration form electronically.
If you are a Globe user, you can register your SIM card by following these steps:
- Enter your 10-digit mobile number and click the “Register” button.
- If eligible to register, you’ll receive a One Time Pin (OTP) text message on your mobile phone.
- Enter the 6-digit OTP on the registration site. Note that the OTP expires in 5 minutes. After your OTP is validated, you may now proceed with the registration.
- Enter all required fields: name, birthday, gender, address, and nationality.
- A reference number will appear on your screen to signify the completion of registration. Please keep the reference number as proof of registration.
- You’ll receive a text message from Globe to confirm if your SIM registration details are correct.
- Text SIMREG to 8080 to confirm your details and registration. You’ll receive a confirmation message from Globe that you’re now registered!
Alternatively, you can download the GlobeOne app and set up your Home Prepaid WiFi account. Enrol your Globe AT HOME Prepaid WiFi mobile number and click “Register your SIM now.”. Then, fill out the registration form and enter all required fields: Name, Birthday, Gender, Address, and Nationality. Take a selfie and select the type of government ID to be uploaded. Click the “Attach” button to upload a copy of your valid government ID. Note that the images should not exceed 4 MB. Adjust your camera settings or take a screenshot if needed. Tick the checkbox to agree with Globe's Privacy Notice and Attestation of Completeness and Accuracy. Click the "Submit" button to finish the registration process.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can purchase SIM cards at Mactan Cebu Airport.
You can buy a SIM card at the airport's convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven and Mini Stop. You can also buy SIM cards from Globe and Smart stores, located on the second floor near Gates 10-15.
Most airport sellers and operator stores accept cash payments in Philippine Pesos. Some may accept credit cards like Visa and Mastercard, but it is recommended to have small PHP bills on hand.
To comply with local regulations, you will need to present a valid government-issued ID, such as your passport or driver's license.
Buying a SIM card at Cebu Airport ensures that you stay connected during your visit to Cebu. You can choose from different SIM cards with various packages to fit your needs and budget.
