Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Monday, August 5, 2013

How to Call Philippines Landline and Cell Phone from Abroad

Learn more on how to call Philippines landline and cell phone number, including detailed instructions regarding the dialing format.

Calling international telephone numbers from one country to another country can be confusing enough. If you include cellular phones to the mix, it becomes even more confusing. Consider these guidelines on how to place international calls, particularly to a Philippine landline and cell phone.

Calling a mobile phone or landline in another country is not much different than making local calls. However, you have to do a little bit of research before making international calls. Certain codes should be pressed before you dial a recipient's number, and these codes will depend on the country you are calling.

When placing an international call, dial the international direct dialing (IDD) number. When calling from the United States, you have to press 011 -- this code will establish your call to another country. After the IDD, it should be followed with the country code of the country you are making a call.

Every country has specific code that must be placed in front of the phone number. After the country code, press the city or area code, then the person's phone number. This will immediately connect you to the recipient, however, take note that not all countries have city or area codes.

When calling the Philippines from abroad, the procedure of dialing is the same whether you are calling from a mobile phone or land phone. The Philippines' country code or ISD (International Subscriber Dialing) code is 63. If you call Philippines, the international dialing format and code is "IDD + 63 + Area Code + Person/Recipient's Number".

The International Direct Dial code or IDD is also known as the access code or the exit code. Each country has different IDD codes; for instance, the US Exit code is 011. Make sure you find the exit code of the country from which you're calling as it is a requirement when making international calls.

If you are calling from a US landline to a Philippines landline, you need to press a string of numbers, beginning with the international direct dial code. The string of numbers will appear like this: 011 + 63 + city code + the phone number. You can find the city code in major phone directories or even on the Internet.

Now, if you are calling a cell phone, the place in the sequence for the city code is replaced by the 3-digit number, which has nothing to do with the city or area code. All cellular phone numbers in the Philippines begin with zero (0). When you dial, you need to omit the 0; so when you call, you have to dial: 011 + 63 + 907 + cell phone number.

Calling a cell phone in the Philippines isn't difficult. In place of city codes, just remember that Philippine cell phone numbers have 3-digit prefixes and all cell phone subscriber numbers have 7 digit. Hence, if you are making an international call, you must be dialing at least 10 digits after the country code.


If you call Philippines from abroad, it is important that you know the exact Philippine time during the time of your call. This will make sure that you're not calling the person during inconvenient hours. There are plenty of time converter tools online so you'll know what time it is in the Philippines.

Monday, July 15, 2013

Different Options when Making International Call to the Philippines

Learn more about the various ways of placing international call to the Philippines, including tips on international roaming and prepaid cell phone features. 

When making international calls to Philippines, you are no longer limited to using phone cards or looking for a phone booth. Nowadays, you can easily get in touch with family and friends while traveling abroad. You can use VoIP applications on your computer or laptop, rent a SIM card or use your current mobile phone.

While it may not be the cheapest option on a per-call basis, purchasing a calling card is very popular among international travelers, as it has fixed prices. Though it is definitely less convenient than using a cell phone, calling cards are easy to budget since they can work anywhere provided you have an access to a phone. Also, people cannot disturb by calling during your precious vacation.

Another option is to bring your cellular phone. This is perhaps the most convenient option when traveling abroad. If you bring a GSM phone, you will be able to use it wherever you go, however, take note that you will likely get expensive roaming fee by your carrier.

Aside from the additional fees, the major requirements include having a GSM phone that must meet the right frequency or band. For frequent international travelers, it is best to bring a tri- or quad-band phone to ensure compatibility. However, remember that only selected phone models have this feature.

If you have a phone that satisfies the requirement above, then you can skip the roaming fees from your local provider by renting a SIM card for your phone to call to the Philippines. This option is usually cheaper than using your current carrier's international rates. However, it requires your tri- or quad-band GSM phone to be unlocked.

If you can rent a SIM card to make international calls to Philippines, you may also choose to rent a cell phone. While costlier than renting a SIM card, renting a cell phone, specifically a GSM phone that functions at your destination makes you reachable anytime. Furthermore, GSM phone rentals are available in more than 150 countries.

The last option is by using Internet-based call services such as Skype or Google Voice. This option can be the cheapest when making international calls--sometimes even free if you are connecting under a free Wifi hotspot. You may use VoIP on your computer via prepaid international broadband, but this option is more expensive and may eat up your credit balance.

If you are traveling abroad and you cannot imagine leaving your cell phone, then don't despair as you can take it with you. After knowing the different options for making international calls, there are some things you ought to know before leaving on your trip. If you choose international roaming, make sure you call the service provider to find out if your cell phone is compatible with foreign networks.

In addition, allow them to activate your phone for international use. Also, ask if your provider offers special deals and promotions for international roaming. Once your international roaming card gets activated, it will function as soon as you arrive at your destination.

If you bring a mobile phone while traveling abroad, you can consider getting a prepaid cell phone the moment you reach your destination. Since most countries have a number of competing wireless provider, make sure you choose a prepaid plan that provide the lowest rates to call to the Philippines. Some even provide free incoming calls. 

Monday, July 1, 2013

How to Reload Your Phone to Telephone Philippines

Learn simple but effective ways to get prepaid phone credits to telephone Philippines from anywhere in the world.

If you are currently working or studying abroad for a long period of time, the most important item that you should have on your person at all times is a cellphone. The gadget comes useful for translating languages and getting directions via special features. It also helps you keep in touch with your family and friends.

What's impressive about the features of modern phones is that they enable you to call and send SMS messages to your loved ones who may be living overseas. This service is called roaming. Basically, its function is to allow you to "roam" anywhere without losing your network's signal.

Smartphones are now installed with a special tab for roaming on the settings section. Instead of having to call your service provider, you can turn on/off your roaming settings with a single click. Thus, it is faster to tweak your phone's call and SMS settings according to the country you're currently in.

In the Philippines, there are three main cellphone networks, namely: Smart, Globe, and Sun Cellular. These SIM cards can be used whenever you travel from one country to another, assuring you that you don't need to purchase new SIMs. However, when using these cards abroad, you can be sure that a call to the Philippines will be costly.

Knowing this, you have to be aware of how you can reload your prepaid credits if ever you want to telephone Philippines or other countries again. You will be happy to learn that foreign areas also sell load cards, though they are usually expensive. To save money, there are some tips that you can follow.

First of all, you may want to purchase a whole box of prepaid scratch cards before leaving the Philippines. You can either use them while still in the country, or bring them with you to your destination. It is important to understand that these cards have expiration dates, so make sure to take note of them.

Let's not underestimate the denomination of Filipinos who are residing all over the world. It is a known fact that Filipinos are "everywhere", and like you, they may be missing their loved ones at home. Therefore, it is not impossible for a country to have a Filipino store where you can load your phone at a lower price.

Another great thing about the roaming ability is that it allows your phone to operate common SIM services. Sharing load overseas is possible, although it is not popular. Contact your network provider if you want to know more about this service.

Finally, when all else fails, you can turn to the Internet. You can use Skype, Facebook, and Yahoo! Messenger to communicate with your loved ones. On the other hand, if you really want to reload your phone, prepaid credits are also up for grabs in some sites, such as eBay.


Morbie eLoading is one site that offers reloading services to Philippine prepaid SIMs all over the world. Its services accommodate both foreign and local needs. Plus, payment is done via debit/credit cards and PayPal for the benefit of those abroad.

Monday, June 24, 2013

Friday, June 21, 2013

Monday, June 17, 2013

Call to Philippines Using International Roaming Services: Globe vs. Smart vs. Sun Cellular

Using your cellular phone abroad can be pricey. When calling someone outside the country using activated roaming service, the entire process is almost the same as phoning another person in the Philippines. In the Philippines, the three giant mobile telecommunications providers -- Smart, Globe and Sun Cellular offer both outbound and inbound roaming services, so you can travel abroad and call Philippines without even changing your phone's SIM card.

How do international roaming services work? Mobile phone carriers usually have roaming agreements, basically allowing subscribers to use the same wireless network when traveling outside the country. In general, you don't need to do anything as the foreign carrier will handle it, and you will notice another telecom provider's name on your phone's screen.

By using international roaming, you can travel overseas and still enjoy the convenience of your own mobile phone. Telecommunication service providers have their own outbound roaming service offerings. Here is a brief overview on Smart, Globe and Sun Cellular's international roaming service offerings, so anyone traveling abroad can call Philippines in the most convenient way.

For Globe Telecom, the company offers postpaid and prepaid international roaming. Roaming activation must be done at least 24 hours before departing the country. To activate your roaming, you will need at least P100 credit balance; otherwise, your roaming activation request will not be granted.

Make sure you maintain a balance of P80.00 so you can call to Philippines while roaming abroad -- take note, if your balance is less than this, you cannot make a call. Furthermore, you will need a minimum of P100 balance everyday to maintain the roaming service. For postpaid subscribers, the roaming services are pre-activated, although it is still encouraged to contact Globe's roaming hotline (+63-7301212) before you leave the country.

Sun Cellular also offers international roaming services for Sun subscribers. Their outbound roaming allows users to use their Sun cell phones while traveling to any destinations around the world. But of course, the availability of roaming services worldwide still depends on the partner operators.

There is no activation fee when subscribing to Sun Cellular International Roaming Service. You only have to pay for the calls that you made. When computing your call charges, the call rates of the country for which you are roaming will apply and this include applicable surcharges/taxes.

Smart offers postpaid and prepaid international roaming service too. For Smart Postpaid and Infinity, the international roaming is pre-activated for the following plans: Smart Postpaid Plans 1800, 2500 and 3500; Infinity Plan 3500, 5000 and 8000; and Smart Postpaid Plans Below 1500. There are no applications or roaming deposit fees needed.

For Smart Prepaid subscribers, international roaming is available in selected countries. The call rates differ every month depending on the call charges of the roaming operator and the current foreign exchange rate. To receive and make calls, you should maintain at least a balance requirement of 1 minute roaming call rate + 25 pesos.

It is very important to understand how to use your phone while traveling in another country. Today, many OFWs prefer using international roaming services to call to Philippines as this option saves them lots of money and load. Getting in touch with their loved ones has never been this convenient and easy via text and call.

Monday, June 10, 2013

Ways to Make a Call to United States

Filipinos are one of the hardest working people in the world. They are highly sought in American hospitals, schools, construction sites, IT companies, shipping lines, and other areas of work for their diligence, selflessness and willingness to go beyond the call of duty. The American military also does not lack Filipino-American soldiers and officers.

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are based in the United States, Canada, Britain, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Korea, and other leading economies in the world. There are Filipino-Americans making names for themselves today, and the world is taking notice. There is a Filipino fashion designer at Bloomingdaleís, an executive chef in the White House, economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, actors in Hollywood, fighters in the UFC, and a finalist in American Idol, to name a few.

Back home, Filipinos in Manila and all over the country are proud of their friends and families who are doing well in the U.S. But some things never change; these include the need to get in touch with loved ones through a phone call. Emails are great but there are more emotions involved when one hears the voice of someone he or she loves over the phone.

There are several ways to call a loved one in the U.S. and one of them is through conventional long-distance calls. The two leading landline phone companies in the Philippines are PLDT and BayanTel, and both provide international call services. The international direct dialing (IDD) service conveniently allows Filipino families to call people abroad direct from their home phone; bills are paid at the end of the month along with the regular telephone bills.

Meanwhile, the three leading cell phone companies are Globe, Smart and Sun. They also provide direct-dial capabilities so that people in Manila can make a call to United States anytime. International texting is also available.

However, cell phone users need to load up since international calls are much more expensive than when calling someone within the Philippines.First-time callers might be surprised that their available call minutes wonít last very long. As a result, the conversation might be cut short and callers end up dissatisfied.

There are several websites that allow Filipinos in the United States to top up mobile phones in the Philippines. One such website is morbie.com. From anywhere in the U.S., Filipinos may simply enter the website and purchase call minutes online and have it sent to a cell phone all the way to the Philippines so that a friend or relative back home can make a call.

Topping up a cell phone online makes international calls very convenient. Morbie.com offers call minutes using the three leading cell phone companies, Globe, Smart and Sun. This service encourages friends and relatives in the Philippines to stay in touch with loved ones in America or elsewhere in the world.

Finally, another way of making a call to the U.S. is on Skype. Seeing someone as you speak used to just be a thing in sci-fi movies. Now it's for real.

The one big problem of Skype, however, is that it is slow and messages get garbled most of the time. What most people do today is to use Skype and the telephone at the same time. Filipinos make a call to United States and turn on their computers at the same time so that they get to see the person they are talking to without sacrificing audio quality.

Monday, June 3, 2013

Communicate with the World: Place and Receive International Calls from Anywhere

The ability to communicate is what sets human beings apart. The ability to maintain good communication, on the other hand, is what makes good human relationships. It is difficult to maintain a relationship without regular, intimate, and intentional communication.

One of the biggest and most important industries in the world today has to do with communications. The Internet, computers, the telephone, Smartphones, and tablets are all tools for communication. While these are high-tech modern equipments that represent human culture and technology at its best, they are simply meant to provide a way for people to communicate with other people better.

The beginning of the Internet may be traced in 1982 with the standardization of the Internet Protocol Suite or TCP/IP. However, the idea of establishing a computer- and telephone-based communications network that covers the world began as early as the 1960s. The Internet was solely for military use back then until it was commercialized in 1995.

The modern computer, on the other hand was first invented in the 1950s. Its main purpose was to store data so that they may be used for communication and information. Today, itís impossible to think of modern humans living without computers.

The telephone, of course, preceded the computer, the Internet, social media, emails, chats, and so on. The telephone was invented way back in 1876 and was doing OK until it finally merged with computer technology in recent years. Today, people from anywhere can make and receive international calls from anywhere in the planet at real time and for free.

The telephone used to be a simple and highly recognizable device. It had a base with a circular dial where telephone numbers are dialed in and a receiver/transmitter with two ends where the user can listen to at one end and speak or transmit his or her own voice at the other end. Today, however, one can hardly recognize a telephone.

Smartphones have taken over. Smartphones are more hand-held computers than they are telephones. Making a phone call is just one basic use of a Smartphone; the other functions include storing data, taking pictures, watching movies, uploading pictures and movies, listening to music, playing video games, catching up with friends on Facebook, and surfing the Internet.

Meanwhile, computers and telephones have another thing in common. Their true beginnings and invention cannot be credited to just one man. Just like the TV, radio and the light bulb, computers and telephones are too influential and civilization-changing that it is difficult to credit just one man for their creation and development.

A study on the history of computers will give rise to popular names such as Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, Charles Babbage, and Alan Turing; and on the telephone, names like Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison and Innocenzo Manzetti. While all of these great people deserve the credit, Steve Jobs seems to be a cut above the rest. Before his untimely death, he changed the world by inventing phones and gadgets that are now synonymous to modern communication.

Finally, even without Smartphones and tablets, one can communicate with other people anywhere using the Internet and a telephone. There are several websites, such as ours, Morbie.com and SendLoadToPhilippines.com, that offer such services at low costs. As people make and receive international calls from anywhere in the world using gadgets or website services, human beings are given several ways to satisfy their basic need to communicate.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

New to Blogging (How did I get here?)

I'm not much of a writer although I love to read. I'm not a fan of marketing research but I do find people's marketing tactics to be quite interesting. I'm not really sure how to start this but here I am typing away.

A good friend and business partner suggested I venture to blogging. If I want to build my own empire, he says, I should start building my "legacy" now. Ok, so empire and legacy might be over exaggerated terms when my goal, really, is just to have a "cash cow" that will help me retire as early as possible.

Anyway, Morbie, my hopefully "cash cow", is an online e-loading site that sends load to the Philippines. You might be wondering why a Canadian guy like me would choose this type of business venture. Well, I'm a bit of a romantic, I guess. I have a soft heart when it comes to long distance relationships and forbidden loves. When I got to know an "OFW" and learned of their hardships being away from their families, my soft heart (and business instinct) went out to her. Long story short, Morbie was born.

My baby was doing fine (on its way to the top) until the whole google phenomenon happened. Now, I'm back to building it up again, with the help of blogging and profiling among others.