How to Call Philippines
Complete guide to dialing Philippines (country code +63)
Whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts, knowing how to call Philippines properly ensures your conversation starts smoothly. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for calling Philippines successfully, from your first dial to your final goodbye. We'll cover the essential dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes that many callers overlook. You'll discover the most common mistakes people make when placing international calls and learn how to avoid them entirely. We'll also explore important Filipino phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, plus share useful emergency and service numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll have the confidence to connect with anyone in the Philippines effortlessly, whether you're calling Manila, Cebu, or any other destination.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call the Philippines internationally, follow this structure: Exit Code + 63 + Area Code (without 0) + Local Number
The Philippines country code is +63. When dialing internationally, always remove the leading "0" from Philippine area codes and mobile numbers.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the USA:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 63 (Philippines country code)
- Dial the area code WITHOUT the leading 0
- Dial the local number
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 63 (Philippines country code)
- Dial the area code WITHOUT the leading 0
- Dial the local number
From other countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00, 011, or +).
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Manila Landline (Area Code 02):
- Local format: 02-XXXX-XXXX
- From USA: 011-63-2-XXXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-63-2-XXXX-XXXX
Example 2 - Philippine Mobile Number (Globe/TM):
- Local format: 0917-XXX-XXXX
- From USA: 011-63-917-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-63-917-XXX-XXXX
Example 3 - Cebu Landline (Area Code 032):
- Local format: 032-XXX-XXXX
- From USA: 011-63-32-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-63-32-XXX-XXXX
Example 4 - Philippine Mobile Number (Smart/TNT):
- Local format: 0920-XXX-XXXX
- From USA: 011-63-920-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-63-920-XXX-XXXX
Important Reminder About Leading Zeros
Philippine numbers displayed locally include a leading "0" before area codes and mobile prefixes. Always drop this zero when dialing internationally. For instance, Manila's area code appears as "02" locally but becomes just "2" when dialing from abroad (011-63-2-XXX-XXXX).
Mobile numbers beginning with 09XX become 9XX internationally, and regional
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Common Mistakes
When calling the Philippines, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Philippine phone numbers start with 0 for domestic calls, but you must remove it for international calls. For example, if the local number is 0917-123-4567, dial +63-917-123-4567 instead.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many callers use their country's exit code incorrectly. Instead of remembering different codes (011 for US, 00 for Europe), simply use the + symbol, which works universally on mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
The country code +63 must come first, followed by the area code (without the zero) and local number. Don't add +63 after the area code or mix up the sequence.
4. Dialing landline and mobile numbers the same way
Mobile numbers have specific prefixes (like 917, 905, 999) while landlines have area codes (2 for Manila, 32 for Cebu). Both require dropping the initial zero, but the format differs.
5. Adding incorrect spaces or dashes
While spaces don't affect connectivity, inconsistent formatting can cause confusion. Use a standard format: +63-XXX-XXX-XXXX for clarity.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in the Philippines, a warm and friendly approach is highly valued. Filipinos typically greet callers with "Hello" or "Kumusta" (How are you?), and it's polite to identify yourself immediately, especially in business contexts.
For business calls, maintain a respectful and courteous tone. Address people using their professional titles like "Sir," "Ma'am," or "Mr./Ms." followed by their surname. Personal calls tend to be more relaxed and casual, with Filipinos often engaging in brief small talk before discussing the main purpose.
The best times to call are between 9 AM and 5 PM on weekdays for business matters. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12-1 PM) or late evenings after 9 PM unless it's urgent or you have a close relationship with the person.
Filipinos generally appreciate a blend of formality and warmth. Starting formally and gradually becoming friendlier as the conversation progresses works well. Extended pleasantries are normal and not considered time-wasting.
Regarding voice messages, keep them concise but friendly. State your name, reason for calling, and contact information clearly. Many Filipinos also use text messages or messaging apps to announce they'll be calling, which is considered thoughtful.
A unique cultural consideration is the concept of "pakikisama" (getting along). Being patient, polite, and maintaining harmony during conversations is essential. Filipinos may avoid direct confrontation, so listen carefully for subtle cues in tone and phrasing.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- 911 - National Emergency Hotline (police, fire, ambulance)
- 117 - Philippine National Police (PNP)
- 143 - Philippine Red Cross
- 8888 - Citizens' Complaint Hotline (non-emergency government concerns)
- 1555 - NDRRMC Disaster Response (natural disasters, typhoons)
Important Information:
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from mobile phones, landlines, and payphones throughout the Philippines. The 911 emergency hotline operates 24/7 with English and Filipino-speaking operators available. Response times may vary depending on your location, with faster service in urban areas like Metro Manila. When calling, clearly state your emergency, exact location, and contact number. The integrated 911 system connects you to appropriate emergency services—police, fire, or medical assistance—eliminating the need to remember multiple numbers.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 187: PLDT Directory Assistance for local phone numbers and business listings
- 108: Globe/TM Directory Assistance
International Services
- 108: International Operator for assisted overseas calls
Tourist & Travel Assistance
- +63-2-8524-1728: Department of Tourism Tourist Assistance Hotline (24/7)
- +63-2-8524-1660: DOT Tourist Information Center
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy directly for citizen services. Major embassies are located in Manila's Makati and Bonifacio Global City districts.
Other Useful Numbers
- 8888: Government Citizen's Complaint Hotline for public service issues
- 151: Maritime distress and safety communication
- 1555: MMDA Metro Manila traffic updates and assistance
- 143: Philippine Red Cross emergency services and blood bank information
Store important numbers in your phone before traveling.
Tips for Calling Philippines
When calling the Philippines (UTC+8), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country operates on Philippine Standard Time year-round with no daylight saving changes.
For international callers, early mornings or late evenings in your time zone typically align with Philippine business hours (9 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday). Avoid calling during lunch breaks (12-1 PM) when offices are less staffed.
Business calls should be scheduled in advance, especially with government offices and larger corporations. This shows professionalism and ensures availability. Filipinos generally appreciate formal appointments over cold calls.
Be mindful of major holidays: New Year, Holy Week (March/April), Independence Day (June 12), and Christmas season (December 16 onwards sees reduced business activity).
For clearer communication, speak slowly and enunciate clearly, as English is widely spoken but accents vary. Mobile networks can be congested during peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM), so schedule important calls outside these windows when possible.
Consider using messaging apps like Viber or WhatsApp beforehand to confirm availability, as these are extremely popular in the Philippines and often more reliable than traditional calls.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Philippines is +63. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Philippines from anywhere in the world.
To dial Philippines from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 63 (country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and then the local number. For example: +63-2-1234-5678.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the Philippine area code when calling internationally. For example, if the local number starts with 02, dial +63-2 instead of +63-02.
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The main emergency number in Philippines is 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies. You can also dial 117 for the Philippine National Police or 143 for the Red Cross emergency services.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Philippines directly from your web browser. Simply visit ZippCall, add credit to your account, and start calling—no downloads or special equipment required.
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