Here's what you need to know about mobile number portability, which takes effect Sept. 30
The Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is set to launch commercially on Sep. 30, allowing mobile phone subscribers to keep their current mobile phone numbers when changing service providers.
The Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI) is the governing body of MNP and is a joint venture company of DITO Telecommunity, Globe Telecom, and Smart Communications.
During the #LagingHanda Public briefing on Sept. 29, TCI general manager Melanie Manuel, said that the MNP will be convenient for subscribers to know which service provider is best within their area while keeping their existing contact number for free.
Manuel said that the MNP will encourage the service providers to offer better promos to ensure the retention of their subscribers.
“What MNP will actually do is to let service providers come up with better services, better promos, and expand coverage for the number porting service,” said Manuel.
Here’s are a few of the mechanics regarding MNP.
Who can avail the mobile number porting?
Porting is available for DITO, Globe, and Smart prepaid and both postpaid subscribers. Postpaid subscribers should make sure that the lock-in period has passed, and all liabilities are settled
Will there be any charges for mobile number porting?
According to Republic Act 11202, which legislates the creation of the MNP, number porting will be free of charge
What are the types of mobile number porting?
- Internal porting - retaining your current mobile number as you move from postpaid to a prepaid subscription or vice versa within the same service provider.
- External porting - retaining your current mobile number as you switch to another service provider.
What are the basic requirements for number porting?
- An active SIM card of your current service provider;
- Government-issued ID;
- Unique Subscriber Code (USC);
- USC is a 9-digit code issued by your current network provider
- You will get your USC when you apply for MNP at your current service provider
- Proof of ownership of your mobile number.
What are steps to apply for mobile number porting?
- Visit your current network provider to apply for MNP and submit the required documents to get your Unique Subscriber Code (USC).
- Present your USC to your preferred network provider and apply for a new account.
- Prepare to receive notification after successful MNP process and new account activation.
How often can I avail the MNP?
There is no limit to the number of times you can switch network providers. However, there is a 60-day period after each successful number porting before you can request another one.
How long does the MNP process take?
The MNP process will take 24 to 48 hours. Subscribers must expect a maximum of 4 hours of downtime before your account is activated.
What will happen to my current promo subscriptions when I apply for MNP?
All load balances, promo subscriptions, and other add-ons will automatically expire once the MNP is approved and activated.