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| The number of registered SIM cards in the Philippines has reached almost 100 million, accounting for over half of the country's active SIM cards. Photo: NTC/Facebook |
TACLOBAN CITY – According to the latest update of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the number of registered SIM cards in the Philippines reached nearly 100 million as of June 18.
This represents approximately 59.42% of the country's total active SIM card population, which is estimated to be around 169 million.
Smart Communications Inc. leads the major telecommunications providers with 47.1 million registered SIM cards, accounting for 71.14% of their subscriber base. Globe Telecom Inc. comes in second with 45.7 million registered SIM cards, accounting for 52.77% of their subscribers. The DITO Telecommunity has also grown, with 6.8 million SIM cards now registered.
Previously, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) extended the deadline for SIM registration in the country until July 25.
Failure to register results in the SIM card being automatically deactivated, preventing users from accessing digital apps and other online services that require two-step verification.
The government intends to improve security measures and ensure a more accountable telecommunications environment in the Philippines by increasing the number of registered SIM cards. SIM card registration is important for encouraging responsible mobile phone usage and preventing fraud. —iTacloban