Mobile Data and SIM Cards in Philippines: what actually matters to know
Short answer
Avoid expensive airport tourist SIM cards and opt for standard local SIMs from Globe or Smart, which are significantly cheaper. Alternatively, purchase affordable eSIMs via platforms like Trip.com before arrival to secure better rates for your data needs.
From real experience
Avoid purchasing overpriced tourist SIM cards sold at Philippine airports, which are often bundled with unnecessary services and cost between 2500 to 4000 PHP.
Standard local rates are much cheaper: a local Smart SIM card with 70 GB of 5G data costs around 1050 PHP. Basic data packages can be bought for 100 PHP (25 GB) with top-ups of 25 GB costing 199 PHP. Alternatively, travelers can purchase affordable eSIMs via platforms like Trip.com beforehand.
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For mobile connectivity in the Philippines, it is recommended to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival, ideally at the airport.
The SIM card itself is inexpensive (around 60-70 PHP), but requires purchasing data packages separately. Popular providers are Globe and Smart. Packages typically vary in duration (1, 3, 5, 14, or 30 days) and offer sufficient data for most users, excluding heavy streaming. A common price for a SIM with a package for a two-week stay is around 1000 PHP.
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On May 29, 2026, the exchange rate in Manila airport was 61.15 PHP per USD.
One old USD banknote was rejected. A Globe SIM card was purchased at the airport. Network performance for Globe SIM varies between iPhone (supporting 5G) and Android (potentially limited to 4G) devices in southern Cebu.
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Travelers can purchase eSIM profiles for the Philippines on Trip.com using Russian bank cards.
Searching for 'esim philippines' on the platform yields various options, such as a 10-day package with 1 GB of daily high-speed data for approximately 450 RUB.
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For convenient and affordable e-SIM options in the Philippines, Trip.com is recommended.
Users report success with e-SIMs purchased there, some of which are multi-country compatible (e.g., China and Philippines).