0970 What Network? This vital prefix belongs to Smart Communications in the Philippines. Mobile network prefixes are essential identifiers in the Philippines telecommunications landscape, helping users instantly recognize which provider is behind a phone number. Among these numerical codes, the 0970 prefix stands as one of Smart Communications’ key mobile number assignments.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the 0970 mobile network, from its technical specifications to practical applications, while providing valuable insights into the broader telecommunications ecosystem in the Philippines.
0970 Prefix: Smart Communications Overview
The 0970 prefix (internationally formatted as +63970) belongs exclusively to Smart Communications, one of the Philippines’ largest telecommunications providers. This prefix was assigned to Smart Communications by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the government agency responsible for regulating and overseeing telecommunications services throughout the country.
Smart Communications began utilizing the 0970 prefix in 2016 as part of its expansion of mobile number assignments to accommodate its growing subscriber base. The prefix predominantly serves prepaid subscribers, though some postpaid plans may also utilize this prefix depending on subscription timing and availability.
According to Smart Communications’ official documentation, the 0970 prefix is part of their primary allocation range, which offers consistent nationwide coverage across their infrastructure. When contacting a 0970 number, you’re connecting with a Smart Communications subscriber benefiting from their network capabilities.
Smart Communications Network Profile
Founded in 1991, Smart Communications operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of PLDT (Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company), establishing itself as a telecommunications giant with approximately 55.8 million subscribers as of late 2024.
Smart’s network infrastructure covers approximately 96% of the Philippine population, with particularly strong coverage in urban centers such as Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The company has invested significantly in network modernization, with most recent capital expenditures focusing on expanding 5G capabilities.
According to Ookla speed tests conducted in the second quarter of 2024, Smart Communications delivered average download speeds of:
- 5G: 163.52 Mbps
- 4G/LTE: 31.84 Mbps
- Overall: 41.97 Mbps
These speeds position Smart Communications competitively within the Philippine market, with particular strength in urban and suburban areas where their infrastructure investments have been most concentrated.
Complete List of Smart Communications Prefixes
Smart Communications maintains numerous prefix assignments beyond just 0970. Understanding these prefixes helps identify Smart subscribers and anticipate call/text rates when contacting these numbers.
Smart Prepaid Prefixes:
- 0813, 0907, 0908, 0909, 0910, 0911, 0912, 0913, 0914
- 0918, 0919, 0920, 0921, 0928, 0929, 0930, 0938, 0939
- 0946, 0947, 0948, 0949, 0951, 0961, 0970, 0981, 0989, 0998, 0999
Smart Postpaid Prefixes:
- 0904, 0917, 0927, 0935, 0936, 0943, 0958, 0961, 0966, 0998, 0999
Of particular interest is how Smart Communications has expanded its prefix allocations over time. The company began with primarily 0918 and 0919 prefixes in its earlier years, gradually acquiring additional prefixes as subscriber bases grew. The 0970 prefix represents a relatively newer allocation compared to some of these historical prefixes.
Comparing 0970 with Other Network Prefixes
Understanding how 0970 compares to prefixes from other networks helps consumers navigate the Philippines’ telecommunications landscape effectively:
| Network | Notable Prefixes | Market Position | Coverage Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Communications | 0970, 0918, 0919, 0999 | 2nd largest provider | Strong urban/suburban coverage |
| Globe Telecom | 0917, 0905, 0945, 0995 | Market leader | Excellent nationwide coverage |
| Talk n Text (Smart subsidiary) | 0907, 0909, 0910, 0912 | Budget-focused | Uses Smart infrastructure |
| DITO Telecommunity | 0895, 0896, 0897, 0898 | Emerging competitor | Growing coverage in key cities |
| Sun Cellular (now integrated with Smart) | 0922, 0923, 0924, 0925 | Absorbed by Smart | Legacy network |
While Globe Telecom maintains slightly higher subscriber numbers (approximately 59.7 million as of Q3 2024), Smart Communications including its 0970 prefix users benefits from PLDT’s extensive fiber backbone network, which spans over 846,000 kilometers nationwide as of late 2024.
DITO Telecommunity, as the newest major player, has rapidly expanded its presence since its 2021 commercial launch and now serves as the third major telecommunications provider in the Philippine market.
Practical Applications of Network Identification
Knowing that 0970 belongs to Smart Communications has several practical applications for both subscribers and those contacting them:
Cost Implications
- Same-network calls/texts: Communications between Smart numbers (including 0970) typically cost less than cross-network communications. Smart regularly offers promotional rates for “Smart-to-Smart” communications.
- Cross-network communications: Calling or texting a 0970 number from Globe, DITO, or other networks typically incurs standard cross-network rates, which are approximately 20-30% higher than same-network communications.
Promotion Eligibility
Smart Communications frequently offers network-specific promotions that apply to 0970 numbers, including:
- Unlimited call/text packages to fellow Smart subscribers
- Data promos exclusive to Smart prepaid numbers
- Reward programs that offer bonuses for Smart-to-Smart communications
Payment System Integration
Mobile numbers are increasingly used as identifiers for digital finance systems, with network identification playing a crucial role:
- GCash transactions may charge different rates for Smart numbers versus Globe numbers
- PayMaya (now Maya) traditionally offers special rates or cashback for Smart subscribers
- Bank transfer fees sometimes vary based on the recipient’s mobile network
Recent Network Developments (2023-2025)
The Philippine telecommunications landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, with several developments affecting 0970 and other Smart Communications prefixes:
Expansion of Mobile Number Portability
In September 2023, the NTC expanded Mobile Number Portability (MNP) services, allowing subscribers to keep their numbers even when switching providers. This means a 0970 number that originally belonged to Smart Communications could potentially now belong to a different provider if the subscriber utilized MNP services.
According to Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI), approximately 3.2 million Filipinos had utilized MNP services by early 2025, representing about 2.5% of the total mobile subscriber base nationwide.
5G Infrastructure Investments
Smart Communications has significantly expanded its 5G network, with 0970 subscribers in major urban centers now able to access 5G services where available. As of February 2025, Smart’s 5G network covers approximately:
- 96% of Metro Manila
- 87% of Cebu City
- 83% of Davao City
- 62% of provincial capital cities
Regulatory Changes
The implementation of SIM registration requirements in 2023 has affected all mobile prefixes, including 0970. By March 2025, approximately 91% of active SIM cards nationwide had been registered, with Smart Communications reporting slightly higher compliance rates (93%) compared to the industry average.
Consumer Guide: Choosing the Right Network
When considering whether to acquire a 0970 number or another Smart Communications prefix, several factors should influence your decision:
Regional Coverage Considerations
Smart Communications, including its 0970 prefix lines, typically offers:
- Excellent coverage in Metro Manila, particularly in business districts
- Strong performance in provincial urban centers
- Variable coverage in remote rural areas, with continuous improvement efforts
According to independent network testing conducted by OpenSignal in January 2025, Smart Communications demonstrated particular strength in:
- Metro Manila: 97.8% 4G availability, 71.3% 5G availability
- Cebu: 95.2% 4G availability, 63.8% 5G availability
- Davao: 94.7% 4G availability, 59.2% 5G availability
Price Point Analysis
Smart Communications positions its offerings across several price points:
- Budget options: Smart Prepaid SIMs (including 0970 prefixes) with basic load options
- Mid-range: Smart Signature Plans starting at PHP 599 monthly
- Premium: Smart Infinity Plans with comprehensive services
When comparing with competitors, Smart’s prepaid offerings (like those using 0970 prefixes) typically offer competitive data rates but may charge slightly higher for voice calls compared to Talk n Text or DITO options.
Technical Details: Understanding Mobile Numbering
The 0970 prefix follows the standard Philippine mobile numbering format:
- Country code: +63
- Mobile prefix: 970
- Subscriber number: 7 digits
When dialing a 0970 number within the Philippines, you would dial: 0970-XXX-XXXX When dialing internationally, you would dial: +63970-XXX-XXXX
The Philippines’ mobile numbering plan allows for approximately 10 million unique numbers within each prefix range, though not all numbers are typically assigned. The National Telecommunications Commission maintains strict oversight of prefix allocations to ensure efficient utilization of the numbering resource.
Frequently Asked 0970 What Network Questions
How can I verify if a number with 0970 prefix belongs to Smart Communications?
You can verify a number’s network by:
- Using the Mobile Number Portability Service Check available through your carrier’s app
- Sending the number to network verification services like 5577 (text format: CHECK 09XXXXXXXXX)
- Contacting Smart Communications customer service at *888
Can I transfer my 0970 number to another network?
Yes, through Mobile Number Portability services, you can transfer your 0970 number to Globe or DITO while retaining the same number. The process typically takes 24-48 hours and requires your ID and proof that the number is registered in your name.
Are there differences between 0970 and other Smart prefixes?
Functionally, all Smart prefixes offer the same network access and service quality. The primary differences relate to when these prefixes were issued and their historical association with specific promotions or product launches.
Does Smart Communications still issue new 0970 numbers?
Yes, Smart Communications continues to issue new SIM cards with the 0970 prefix, though availability may vary by location as number allocations within this prefix are gradually assigned over time.
Conclusion
The 0970 mobile network prefix represents one of Smart Communications’ numerous allocations within the Philippine telecommunications ecosystem. Understanding that 0970 belongs to Smart helps consumers anticipate service quality, network coverage, and potential costs when communicating with these numbers.
As the Philippine telecommunications market continues to evolve with improved Mobile Number Portability, expanded 5G coverage, and growing competition from DITO Telecommunity network prefixes remain important identifiers that help navigate this complex landscape. Smart Communications’ 0970 prefix subscribers benefit from the company’s extensive infrastructure investments while participating in the broader digital transformation of communications throughout the Philippines.
For those seeking to verify other mobile prefixes or learn more about telecommunications options in the Philippines, the National Telecommunications Commission provides regularly updated resources through their official website.
Jennifer Smith is a passionate technology enthusiast with a deep focus on the digital landscape of the Philippines. With years of experience in the telecommunications and networking industry, she brings expert knowledge and practical insights to her writing. As the driving force behind Sim GuidesPh, Jennifer is dedicated to helping readers understand the complexities of the Philippine network landscape. Whether it’s exploring mobile networks, internet service providers, or the latest technological trends, Jennifer’s detailed guides aim to keep Filipinos informed and connected in an ever-changing digital world.
