There are many reasons why millions of Filipinos prefer prepaid over postpaid. For one, prepaid SIMs are more affordable. They only cost Php 40 and come with a lot of sign-up bonuses. Getting a prepaid account is also more accessible. There are no requirements or application forms needed—just go to the nearest convenience store or telco shop and you’ll be able to get a SIM card.
Another reason is that with a prepaid account, you can adjust your budget depending on your needs. If you want, you can even mix-and-match your load and mobile data packages. In addition, there are now various methods to get your load online and receive discounts for more convenience and more savings. You can also choose the duration of the promo, whether it’s for a few days or an entire month. In short, prepaid equals sulit.
That said, below is a list of 7 popular prepaid load and mobile data packages. If you’re a prepaid user as well or if you’re planning to make the switch, you can use this as a guide to help you maximize your budget.
Surfing Packages
Among all the products in this list, a surfing package can be considered the “all-around” one. This option allows you to visit websites beyond social media pages, with a fixed data allocation daily (e.g., 100 MB per day). It also comes with a prepaid load bundle you can use to call and text.
If you aren’t a heavy social media user or if you often visit other websites like blogs or news sites, then this mobile data and prepaid load package is for you.
Gaming Packages
Do you use your mobile phone to play games like Mobile Legends, Clash of Clans, Arena of Valor, and more? If so, check out if your service provider has available gaming packages. Just like the surfing package mentioned above, a gaming package usually comes with a fixed data allocation per day.
In addition, you also have open access data to visit other websites. This is useful if you’re looking for tips and tricks to help you unleash your A-game whenever you play.
Social Media Packages
It’s undeniable that Filipinos love being on social media, and not just for social purposes either. Aside from posting selfies and other status updates, Filipinos also use social media sites to keep in touch with their loved ones, get the latest news updates, and even manage their business.
If you’re often using apps like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, your telco’s social media packages are the best fit for you. The lower denominations usually give exclusive access to specific sites for 3 to 5 days, while the higher denominations also come with open-access data along with social media access for 1 month.
Video Streaming Packages
For those who love watching movies, TV shows, and sports programs, your wallet will thank you for availing of video streaming packages. You can use them for both streaming sites and apps, and also come with bonus calls and texts (usually unli, depending on the telco).
Aside from entertainment, you can also use this package if you’re taking online lessons with videos uploaded on streaming sites.
Productivity Packages
If you’re a freelancer or on a work from home set-up, consider availing of productivity packages. This gives you access to messaging and conferencing apps, as well as email. As such, you’ll have an easier time getting in touch with your colleagues and clients.
Do note that not all telcos have this offer. In some cases, access to productivity apps is bundled with social media packages.
Unli Call and Text
If you’re the type who prefers calling and texting for keeping in touch, over messaging through social media, the perfect mobile load package you would be the good old unli-call and text.
It’s exactly what it says on the tin: you can call or text to your heart’s content without worrying about your load running out. Depending on the denomination, your unli-call and text load is valid for a minimum of 3 days up to a month. If you’re really a “hardcore” user, the higher denomination with a longer validity date will definitely give more bang for your buck.
Regular Load
Finally, if you want the ultimate flexibility, you can always opt for a regular load. This will give you an airtime load for calling and texting any network, which you can also use for internet access. In addition, the higher the denomination, the more bonuses you get. For example, if you buy Php 1,000 of regular load, you’ll receive 250 free texts to all networks. This means that you can “reserve” your regular load for other purposes.
The best thing about regular load is that it’s valid for 1 year. It doesn’t matter if you load the lowest available amount or the highest—the credits will remain in your account for 1 year. (The bonuses have different expiration dates, but they usually last for more than 200 days.)
As you can see, there’s a lot of variety and flexibility when it comes to prepaid load and mobile data. This gives you more room to practice your diskarte and get the most out of your hard-earned money.
