0953 What Network in the Philippines: The Complete Guide

In the Philippines, where mobile communication is essential to daily life, knowing your network provider is more than just a matter of curiosity it’s practical information that affects your calling rates, promo eligibility, and service expectations. If you’ve encountered a phone number starting with 0953, you’re dealing with a Touch Mobile (TM) number, a significant player in the country’s telecommunications landscape. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the 0953 What network, from its origins and capabilities to registration requirements and future outlook.

What is the 0953 What Network?

The 0953 prefix is one of several number series assigned to Touch Mobile, a popular budget-friendly telecommunications service in the Philippines. When seen in its international format, 0953 becomes 63953, with 63 being the country code for the Philippines.

Touch Mobile, commonly known as TM, operates as a subsidiary of Globe Telecom, one of the Philippines’ telecommunications giants. Launched as Globe’s “value brand,” TM caters primarily to budget-conscious consumers looking for affordable communication solutions without compromising on essential services.

According to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), mobile prefixes are allocated to specific telecommunications companies, and 0953 falls under Touch Mobile’s allocation. This system helps identify which network a number belongs to, which is particularly important in a country where cross-network calls and texts often incur different rates than in-network communications.

History and Evolution of Touch Mobile

Touch Mobile entered the Philippine market in 2001 as Globe Telecom’s answer to Smart Communications’ Talk ‘N Text brand. The goal was clear: offer affordable communications to the mass market while maintaining a distinct identity from the parent company’s premium positioning.

The 0953 prefix was not among TM’s original number series but was added later as the subscriber base grew and demand for new numbers increased. According to telecommunications historian Froilan Castelo in his book “The Philippine Telecom Sector: A Historical Perspective,” Touch Mobile’s expansion mirrored the Philippines’ growing mobile adoption rate, which jumped from just 12% in 2000 to over 110% (indicating multiple SIM ownership) by 2015.

TM’s strategic position as a budget brand proved successful, particularly in provincial areas where price sensitivity was higher. By offering lower denomination load options (as little as PHP 5) and affordable promos, Touch Mobile captured a significant market share among students, workers in the informal economy, and rural communities.

Unlike its parent company Globe, which emphasized lifestyle and premium services, Touch Mobile built its reputation on simplicity and affordability. This positioning has remained consistent even as the brand evolved to include data services alongside traditional voice and SMS offerings.

Complete Guide to Touch Mobile Prefixes

While this article focuses on the 0953 prefix, Touch Mobile operates several other prefixes in its number series. Understanding the full range helps consumers identify TM numbers and understand the network’s scale in the Philippine market.

Here’s a comprehensive list of Touch Mobile prefixes as of September 2023:

PrefixNetworkFormat with Country Code0905Touch Mobile639050906Touch Mobile639060915Touch Mobile639150916Touch Mobile639160917Touch Mobile639170926Touch Mobile639260927Touch Mobile639270935Touch Mobile639350936Touch Mobile639360937Touch Mobile639370945Touch Mobile639450953Touch Mobile639530954Touch Mobile639540955Touch Mobile639550956Touch Mobile639560965Touch Mobile639650966Touch Mobile639660967Touch Mobile639670975Touch Mobile639750976Touch Mobile639760977Touch Mobile639770995Touch Mobile639950996Touch Mobile639960997Touch Mobile63997

These prefixes follow the standard Philippine mobile number format of a four-digit prefix followed by a seven-digit subscriber number, for a total of 11 digits including the initial zero.

According to NTC data, Touch Mobile’s allocation of prefixes, including 0953, represents approximately 25% of all mobile prefixes in the country, highlighting the brand’s significant market presence despite its budget positioning.

Network Coverage and Service Quality

As a subsidiary of Globe Telecom, Touch Mobile, including 0953 numbers, operates on the same network infrastructure as its parent company. This means that the coverage map and signal strength for 0953 users mirror what Globe subscribers experience.

Based on the latest OpenSignal report (2023), Globe’s network which powers Touch Mobile covers approximately 92% of the Philippine population. Urban areas enjoy nearly complete coverage, while some remote rural and mountainous regions may still experience spotty service.

Here’s how the network performs across key metrics:

• Average Download Speed: 15.2 Mbps (urban areas) / 8.7 Mbps (rural areas)
• Average Upload Speed: 5.8 Mbps (urban areas) / 3.2 Mbps (rural areas)
• Latency: 45ms average
• 4G Availability: 85.3% nationwide

Jorge Barientos, a telecommunications analyst at Pacific Research, notes: “Touch Mobile users, including those with 0953 prefixes, benefit from Globe’s ongoing network upgrades, though they may experience some deprioritization during congestion periods compared to premium Globe subscribers.”

Network performance for 0953 users can vary significantly based on location, time of day, and network congestion. Urban centers like Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao typically offer stronger signals and faster data connections, while mountainous regions in provinces like Benguet, Ifugao, and parts of Mindanao may present coverage challenges.

Globe Telecom’s recent investments in network infrastructure have particularly benefited Touch Mobile users. According to Globe’s 2022 annual report, the company spent PHP 89.9 billion on network improvements, including expanding 4G LTE coverage and beginning the 5G rollout in key urban areas. These improvements directly translate to better service for 0953 users, especially regarding data connectivity.

Touch Mobile Plans and Promotions for 0953 Users

One of Touch Mobile’s key selling points is its affordable pricing structure. Users with 0953 numbers have access to the same promotions and packages as other TM subscribers.

Popular Prepaid Offers

TM offers several budget-friendly promotional packages that 0953 users can avail:

• SURFMAX – Data-focused promos ranging from PHP 50 (2GB valid for 3 days) to PHP 299 (15GB valid for 30 days)
• ALL NET TEXTS – Text messaging bundles starting at PHP 10 for 100 texts to all networks
• EasySURF – Combined data, call, and text packages starting at PHP 20
• ALLNET CALL – Call packages for reaching any network, starting at PHP 15 for 30 minutes

Fernando Marcos, a communications consultant, observes: “What makes TM attractive to budget-conscious consumers is not just the low entry price but the granularity of options. You can load as little as 5 pesos for emergency texts or calls something not all networks offer.”

How to Avail Promotions

0953 users can subscribe to these promotions through several channels:

• Via SMS: Text the promo code (e.g., SURFMAX50) to 8080
• Via Globe/TM App: Download the app and select desired promos
• Via *143#: Dial *143# and follow the menu prompts
• Via authorized load retailers: Purchase promo directly from load sellers

According to Globe’s consumer insights data, the most popular packages among 0953 users are combination promos that offer a mix of data, texts, and calls, reflecting the diverse communication needs of budget-conscious users.

Competitive Comparison

NetworkEntry-Level Data PromoMid-Range Data PromoUnlimited Call & TextTM (0953)PHP 20 (1GB, 2 days)PHP 150 (5GB, 7 days)PHP 100 (7 days)Smart/TNTPHP 25 (1GB, 2 days)PHP 149 (5GB, 7 days)PHP 120 (7 days)DITOPHP 25 (2GB, 3 days)PHP 199 (8GB, 30 days)PHP 150 (30 days)GlobePHP 35 (1GB, 1 day)PHP 200 (5GB, 7 days)PHP 150 (7 days)

This comparison shows that Touch Mobile generally maintains price advantages over its competitors, especially for short-term, low-denomination promos that appeal to its target market.

SIM Registration Requirements for 0953 Numbers

Following the implementation of the SIM Card Registration Act (Republic Act No. 11934) in December 2022, all mobile users in the Philippines, including those with 0953 numbers, are required to register their SIM cards.

Registration Process for Touch Mobile Users

Touch Mobile has made the registration process available through multiple channels:

• Online Portal: Visit https://new.globe.com.ph/simreg (available 24/7)
• Globe Stores: Visit any Globe Store nationwide with valid ID
• Assisted Registration Centers: Available in select remote areas

The basic requirements for registration include:

• Valid government-issued ID with photo
• Complete personal information (full name, date of birth, address)
• Active mobile number
• Working email address
• Recent photo (selfie)

Atty. Maria Cristina Conti, a regulatory specialist, warns: “The penalties for non-registration are severe. After the deadline, unregistered SIMs will be deactivated, and attempts to use false information for registration can result in fines from PHP 100,000 to PHP 1 million and even imprisonment.”

According to the National Privacy Commission, despite privacy concerns, the SIM registration database is subject to strict data protection protocols under the Philippine Data Privacy Act. Information collected during registration can only be disclosed under specific circumstances, such as by court order or for national security purposes.

As of September 2023, Globe Telecom reported that approximately 85% of their subscribers, including Touch Mobile 0953 users, had successfully registered their SIM cards. The company continues to encourage remaining users to complete their registration to avoid service interruption.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with 0953 Numbers

Users of 0953 and other Touch Mobile numbers occasionally encounter technical issues. Here are solutions to the most common problems:

Signal Problems

If you’re experiencing poor reception with your 0953 number:

• Check for network outages: Visit Globe’s social media pages for announcements
• Toggle Airplane Mode: Turn it on and off to refresh your connection
• Reset Network Settings: On Android, go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings
• Check APN Settings: Ensure your Access Point Name settings are correct (APN: internet.globe.com.ph)
• Report to Customer Service: If problems persist, report to TM’s customer service

Registration Issues

Common SIM registration problems include:

• Verification Failures: Ensure your ID information matches exactly what’s on your government ID
• Photo Rejection: Take a clear selfie in good lighting with your face fully visible
• System Timeouts: Try during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening)
• Incomplete Forms: Double-check that all required fields are filled out

Technical specialist Ricardo Villareal suggests: “If you’ve tried multiple times online without success, visiting a physical Globe Store is often the fastest solution for registration issues.”

Load and Credit Problems

Issues with loading or maintaining credit balance:

• Unregistered Load: Ensure your retailer is authorized; always request a receipt
• Unexpected Balance Deductions: Check for active subscriptions via *143#
• Failed Promo Registration: Verify you have sufficient balance and are sending to the correct number
• Load Expiration: Be aware of validity periods (regular load expires in 1 year)

Customer Service Contact Information

For issues that can’t be resolved through self-service:

• Hotline: Dial 211 from your Touch Mobile number
• SMS: Text your concern to 8080
• Social Media: Message @TMPHSupport on Twitter/X or @GlobeIcon on Facebook
• Email: help@globeandtm.ph

According to customer satisfaction surveys, Touch Mobile’s average response time is 24 hours for email inquiries and 15 minutes for hotline calls during business hours.

How 0953 Compares to Other Networks

Understanding how Touch Mobile (particularly the 0953 prefix) compares to other major networks helps consumers make informed choices about their mobile service provider.

Network Speed and Reliability

Based on the 2023 Philippine Network Quality Report by Ookla:

NetworkAverage Download SpeedAverage Upload SpeedLatencyReliability ScoreTouch Mobile (Globe Network)15.2 Mbps5.8 Mbps45ms87/100Smart/TNT19.7 Mbps6.2 Mbps38ms89/100DITO25.3 Mbps7.1 Mbps42ms82/100

While Touch Mobile users experience slightly lower speeds than competitors, the difference is often negligible for everyday tasks like social media browsing, messaging, and standard definition video streaming.

Pricing Structure Comparison

Touch Mobile maintains its positioning as a value-oriented brand:

• Entry-level data packages: Typically 10-15% cheaper than Smart/TNT and 20-30% cheaper than Globe’s main brand
• Voice call rates: Comparable to TNT but often with more flexible denomination options
• Text messaging: Similar pricing across budget brands
• Validity periods: Generally on par with competitors

Economist Dr. Amanda Santos notes: “Touch Mobile’s pricing strategy shows clear segmentation. They’re not always the absolute cheapest, but they offer the most flexible denominations, which matters for daily wage earners who can’t commit to larger loads at once.”

Customer Satisfaction

According to the 2023 Philippine Customer Satisfaction Index:

NetworkOverall SatisfactionCustomer ServiceValue for MoneyNetwork QualityPromo RelevanceTouch Mobile78/10076/10085/10072/10080/100Smart/TNT80/10078/10079/10081/10077/100DITO76/10074/10083/10079/10071/100Globe82/10083/10074/10084/10079/100

Touch Mobile scores particularly well in the “value for money” category, reinforcing its positioning as a budget-friendly option. However, it lags slightly in network quality metrics compared to premium brands.

Future of Mobile Networks in the Philippines

The telecommunications landscape in the Philippines continues to evolve rapidly, with several developments poised to impact Touch Mobile and its 0953 users.

Technological Advancements

5G Expansion: Globe has begun rolling out 5G services in major urban areas, with plans to extend coverage to more regions by 2025. According to Globe’s technology roadmap, Touch Mobile users (including 0953 numbers) will eventually gain access to 5G services, though likely at a price premium compared to 4G offerings.

Dr. Ernesto Villegas, technology futurist at the Philippine Institute of Digital Transformation, predicts: “By 2026, we expect 5G coverage to reach about 70% of the Philippine population. Budget brands like TM will likely introduce tiered 5G access, with basic 5G packages available at affordable rates while premium speeds remain with the parent brands.”

Infrastructure Sharing: Recent regulatory changes encourage infrastructure sharing among telecom providers. The Common Tower Policy, implemented in 2020, aims to increase tower density nationwide by allowing multiple networks to use the same physical infrastructure. This development could improve coverage for all networks, including Touch Mobile’s 0953 users, particularly in underserved areas.

Regulatory Changes

SIM Registration: Following the implementation of mandatory SIM registration, telecommunications analysts anticipate stricter enforcement and possibly additional verification requirements in coming years.

Number Portability: The Mobile Number Portability Act, which took effect in 2021, allows subscribers to keep their mobile numbers when switching networks. This means 0953 users can potentially take their numbers to other providers, increasing competition for customer retention.

Telecommunications lawyer Atty. Roberto Marcos explains: “Number portability fundamentally changes the market dynamics. Now networks have to compete on service quality and pricing rather than relying on the inconvenience of changing numbers to keep subscribers.”

New Market Entrants: The entry of DITO Telecommunity as the third major player has increased competition, potentially benefiting consumers through better services and competitive pricing. Further market liberalization could introduce additional players in the coming years.

What 0953 Users Can Expect

Based on current trends and industry projections, 0953 users can anticipate several developments:

• Gradual 5G Access: Initially in major cities, with broader coverage by 2026-2027
• More Data-Centric Promos: As data usage continues to rise, expect more specialized data packages
• Value-Added Services: Potential bundling with digital services like mobile banking, entertainment, and e-commerce
• Improved Rural Coverage: Through infrastructure sharing and government initiatives to bridge the digital divide
• Price Competition: Continued competitive pricing, especially as DITO expands its coverage

According to Globe’s investor relations reports, the company plans to maintain Touch Mobile’s position as a value brand while gradually introducing more advanced services to the product mix.

FAQs About 0953 Mobile Network

How can I check if my number is a Touch Mobile 0953 number?

If your mobile number starts with 0953, it belongs to Touch Mobile. You can also dial *143# from your phone and select “Account Information” to verify your network provider.

Can I transfer my existing number to a 0953 prefix?

No, you cannot change your existing prefix to 0953. The prefix is assigned when the SIM is manufactured. However, under the Mobile Number Portability Act, you can keep your entire number (including prefix) when switching between networks.

What happens if I don’t register my 0953 SIM card?

Unregistered SIM cards will be deactivated after the final registration deadline. According to the SIM Card Registration Act, using an unregistered SIM after the deadline could result in penalties for both the user and the service provider.

Does Touch Mobile offer 5G services for 0953 numbers?

As of 2023, Touch Mobile’s 5G access is limited to select areas and typically available through specific promotions. Full 5G rollout for TM users, including those with 0953 prefixes, is expected to expand gradually through 2025-2026.

How does Touch Mobile’s customer service compare to other providers?

Touch Mobile shares customer service resources with Globe Telecom, though with some dedicated TM customer service representatives. Based on customer satisfaction surveys, TM’s service ranks slightly below Globe’s premium service but on par with other budget brands like Talk ‘N Text.

Conclusion

The 0953 mobile network, as part of Touch Mobile’s extensive prefix family, represents an important segment of the Philippine telecommunications landscape. Positioned as a budget-friendly alternative under Globe Telecom’s umbrella, 0953 numbers offer affordable communication solutions without sacrificing essential connectivity.

As the Philippines continues its digital transformation journey, Touch Mobile and its 0953 users stand to benefit from technological advancements and regulatory changes shaping the industry. While the advent of 5G, stricter SIM registration enforcement, and increased competition will bring changes, TM’s core value proposition of affordability and accessibility will likely remain consistent.

For current and prospective 0953 users, staying informed about network developments, registration requirements, and available promotions ensures maximum benefit from their mobile service. As telecommunications increasingly becomes essential infrastructure rather than a luxury, brands like Touch Mobile play a crucial role in ensuring digital inclusion across all economic segments of Philippine society.