0956 What Network: Is It Globe, Smart, or DITO?
Have you received a call from a number starting with 0956 and found yourself wondering which network it belongs to? You’re not alone. In the Philippines, identifying a number’s provider is the key to using the right call and text promos and saving money on load. This guide gives you a fast, accurate answer and explains everything you need to know about the 0956 prefix.
Key Takeaways
- Primary Network: The 0956 prefix is assigned to Globe Telecom and its affiliate brand, TM (Touch Mobile).
- On-Net Calls: Calls and texts between Globe and TM numbers (including 0956) are considered “on-net,” making them eligible for network-exclusive unlimited promos.
- Important Exception: Due to the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Act, a user might have kept their 0956 number but switched to another network like Smart or DITO. The prefix is no longer a 100% guarantee of the network.
The Direct Answer: 0956 is a Globe and TM Network Prefix
To be clear, the 0956 mobile number prefix is officially assigned to Globe Telecom and its value brand, TM (Touch Mobile).
When you see an incoming call or receive a message from a 0956 number, the person is likely a Globe or TM subscriber. This is valuable information for anyone looking to maximize their network-specific promotions.
Understanding the Globe and TM Network Relationship
It can be confusing to hear that a prefix belongs to two brands, but the relationship is quite simple.
Are Globe and TM the Same Network?
Yes, for all practical purposes, they are. TM operates as a brand under Globe Telecom and uses the same robust network infrastructure. Think of Globe as the parent company and TM as one of its core services.
What “On-Net” Calls Mean for You and Your Promos
Because they share a network, communications between Globe and TM numbers are considered “on-net.” This means if you are a Globe subscriber with a promo for unlimited calls to Globe/TM, your calls to a 0956 number are covered, and vice versa.
A Note on Mobile Number Portability (MNP)
While 0956 is a Globe/TM prefix, there is a crucial factor to consider in 2025: Mobile Number Portability (MNP).
What is MNP?
The Mobile Number Portability Act allows Filipino mobile users to switch network providers (e.g., from Globe to Smart) without changing their mobile number.
How MNP Can Affect the 0956 Prefix
This means a person who was originally issued a 0956 Globe SIM card could now be a Smart or DITO subscriber. While the vast majority of 0956 numbers will still be on the Globe/TM network, the prefix is no longer a definitive guarantee.
How to Be 100% Sure of a Number’s Current Network
Unfortunately, there is no public tool to check a number’s current network after porting due to privacy reasons. The best way to be certain is simply to ask the person you are contacting.
Complete List of Globe and TM Prefixes (Updated 2025)
To help you identify other numbers, here is a comprehensive list of prefixes assigned to the Globe/TM network.
- 0905, 0906
- 0915, 0916, 0917
- 0926, 0927
- 0935, 0936
- 0945
- 0956
- 0965, 0966, 0967
- 0975, 0976, 0977
- 0995, 0996, 0997
Frequently Asked Questions
What network provider is 0956?
The 0956 prefix is assigned to Globe Telecom and its affiliate brand, TM (Touch Mobile), in the Philippines.
Is 0956 a Smart number?
No, 0956 is not a prefix originally assigned to Smart Communications. However, due to Mobile Number Portability (MNP), it is possible for a user to keep their 0956 number while switching to the Smart network.
Can a 0956 number switch to the Smart network?
Yes. Thanks to the MNP Act, any mobile user, including those with a 0956 number, can switch their network provider (e.g., to Smart or DITO) while keeping their existing phone number.
