0977 What Network? In the Philippines’ complex telecommunications landscape, knowing which network a mobile number belongs to can save you money, help you choose the right promos, and improve your communication strategy.
The 0977 prefix is one that many Filipinos encounter regularly, and understanding its network association provides several practical benefits. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the 0977 mobile network prefix and how it fits into the broader Filipino telecommunications ecosystem.
What Does the 0977 Prefix Tell You?
The 0977 prefix belongs to the Globe Telecoms family, specifically operating under either Globe Telecoms or Touch Mobile (TM) networks. When you see a phone number beginning with 0977, you can immediately identify it as a Globe or TM subscriber. This prefix, like others in the Philippine mobile numbering system, follows the standard 11-digit mobile number format (0XXX-XXX-XXXX).
When this number appears in international format, it will show as 63977, with “63” representing the Philippines country code. For example, a local number like 0977-123-4567 would appear as +63977-123-4567 in international format.
How to distinguish between Globe and TM with 0977 numbers:
While both Globe and TM share the 0977 prefix, there’s no immediate way to distinguish which specific network a particular 0977 number belongs to just by looking at the number. This is because the prefix allocation is done at the provider family level, with both Globe and its subsidiary Touch Mobile sharing certain prefixes as part of their number resource management.
Historical Context of the 0977 Prefix
The 0977 prefix was introduced as part of Globe’s expanding mobile number allocation in response to the company’s growing subscriber base. The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) allocates these prefixes to telecom companies based on their subscriber growth and network expansion plans.
Globe Telecoms, established in 1991, has continuously expanded its prefix portfolio as its customer base has grown. The Philippine mobile market has seen exponential growth since the early 2000s, necessitating regular introduction of new prefixes across all major networks.
According to data from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), mobile penetration in the Philippines reached approximately 138% by 2023, meaning there are more active mobile subscriptions than people – highlighting the need for extensive numbering resources.
Complete Guide to Globe and Touch Mobile Prefixes
Understanding where 0977 fits within the larger Globe/TM prefix ecosystem helps place it in context. Below is a comprehensive list of prefixes for both networks as of March 2025:
Globe Telecoms Prefixes:
- 0915, 0917, 0905
- 0906, 0916, 0926
- 0927, 0935, 0936
- 0937, 0945, 0953
- 0954, 0955, 0956
- 0965, 0966, 0967
- 0975, 0976, 0977
- 0978, 0979, 0995
- 0996, 0997
Touch Mobile (TM) Prefixes:
- 0905, 0906, 0915
- 0916, 0917, 0926
- 0927, 0935, 0936
- 0937, 0945, 0953
- 0954, 0955, 0965
- 0966, 0967, 0975
- 0976, 0977, 0978
- 0979, 0995, 0996
- 0997
You may notice some overlap between the two lists. This is because Globe and Touch Mobile, as sister companies under Globe Telecom Inc., share certain prefix allocations. The network assignment happens at the individual number level rather than the entire prefix block, allowing for flexible resource management.
Technical Aspects of 0977 Numbers
The 0977 prefix, like other Globe/TM prefixes, operates on Globe’s telecommunications infrastructure. Here are some technical aspects worth understanding:
Network Technology
Globe has been continuously upgrading its infrastructure, with 0977 numbers supported across its entire technology stack:
- 2G (GSM) – For basic voice and SMS services
- 3G (UMTS/HSPA) – For improved data services
- 4G/LTE – For high-speed mobile internet
- 5G – For ultra-high-speed connectivity in supported areas
According to Globe’s 2024 network report, the company has achieved approximately 97% nationwide coverage for basic services, with 4G/LTE coverage reaching 93% of populated areas and 5G deployment focused on major urban centers.
Network Performance
Based on independent speed tests conducted by Ookla in Q1 2025, Globe’s network (which includes 0977 numbers) demonstrated:
- Average download speeds of 42.3 Mbps
- Average upload speeds of 8.7 Mbps
- Average latency of 31ms
These metrics place Globe’s network performance (including 0977 numbers) competitively within the Philippine telecommunications landscape.
Practical Applications for Users
Knowing that 0977 belongs to Globe/TM provides several practical benefits:
Cost-Saving Opportunities
Globe and TM frequently offer special promos for “same-network” communications. When you identify a contact as having a 0977 number, you can:
- Use Globe-to-Globe or TM-to-Globe promos for cheaper calls and texts
- Take advantage of unlimited call/text packages within the network
- Optimize your communication expenses by timing conversations during promo periods
Promo Maximization
As of April 2025, Globe offers several promotions specifically designed for same-network communication:
- GoSAKTO90 offers unlimited calls to Globe/TM for 7 days at ₱90
- GoUNLI20 provides unlimited texts to Globe/TM for 1 day at ₱20
- GoSURF50 includes 1GB data plus unlimited texts to Globe/TM for 3 days at ₱50
Knowing your contact uses a 0977 number lets you leverage these same-network benefits.
Comparison with Other Major Networks
Understanding how 0977 numbers compare with other networks helps place them in the broader telecommunications landscape:
| Network | Common Prefixes | Cross-Network Call Cost | Cross-Network Text Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Globe/TM | 0977, 0917, 0905 | ₱6.50/minute | ₱1.00/text |
| Smart | 0908, 0918, 0919 | ₱6.50/minute | ₱1.00/text |
| TNT | 0907, 0909, 0910 | ₱6.50/minute | ₱1.00/text |
| DITO | 0991, 0992, 0993 | ₱6.00/minute | ₱1.00/text |
| Sun | 0922, 0923, 0925 | ₱6.50/minute | ₱1.00/text |
Note: Rates are standard rates as of April 2025. Actual costs may vary based on promos and special offers.
According to the latest NTC report, Globe (including 0977 numbers) maintains approximately 45% market share in the Philippines, with Smart/TNT at 43%, DITO at 10%, and other providers comprising the remaining 2%.
The Future of Mobile Prefixes in the Philippines
The Philippine telecommunications landscape continues to evolve, with several developments on the horizon that will impact 0977 and other prefixes:
Mobile Number Portability
Since the implementation of the Mobile Number Portability Act (Republic Act No. 11202) in 2021, Filipinos have gained the ability to keep their mobile numbers when switching providers. This means that eventually, the prefix alone may not definitively identify a subscriber’s current network.
As shared by the Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI), the joint venture implementing number portability:
“With over 3 million Filipinos having ported their numbers since implementation, the traditional association between prefixes and networks is gradually changing. In the future, additional verification may be needed to confirm a number’s current network.” – TCI Annual Report, 2024
Expanding Number Resources
With the continuous growth of mobile subscriptions, the NTC has plans to introduce new prefixes across all networks. For Globe/TM, this could mean additional prefixes beyond the current allocation, potentially including 4-digit prefixes in the future as numbering resources become more constrained.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with 0977 Numbers
Users of 0977 numbers may occasionally experience network-specific issues. Here are solutions to common problems:
Connectivity Problems
If you’re experiencing difficulty reaching a 0977 number:
- Check if there are reported network outages in your area or the recipient’s area
- Verify if your load/credits are sufficient for cross-network communication
- Try using the international format (+63977) if calling from abroad
- Ensure the number is still active (Globe numbers remain active for 12 months after the last load)
Service Disruptions
For service-related issues with 0977 numbers:
- Call Globe customer service at 211 (from Globe/TM) or (02) 7730-1000
- Visit the nearest Globe store for in-person assistance
- Use the GlobeOne app to report and track service tickets
- Check Globe’s social media accounts for announcements about service disruptions
Additional Resources
- Globe Telecoms Official Website
- Touch Mobile Official Page
- National Telecommunications Commission
- Mobile Number Portability Information
- Department of Information and Communications Technology
FAQs About 0977 What Network and Philippine Mobile Networks
0977 belongs to Globe Telecom, one of the major telecommunications providers in the Philippines.
When was the 0977 prefix introduced?
The 0977 prefix was introduced by Globe Telecom in the mid-2010s to accommodate their expanding customer base.
Can I keep my 0977 number when switching networks?
Yes, you can keep your 0977 number when switching providers through Mobile Number Portability (MNP) which became available in 2021.
How do prefix codes work in Philippine mobile numbers?
Prefix codes (like 0977) are the first four digits of a mobile number that identify which network the number belongs to.
What are other Globe network prefixes besides 0977?
Other Globe prefixes include 0905, 0906, 0915, 0916, 0917, 0926, 0927, and several more recent additions.
What is the complete format for 0977 numbers?
The complete format is 0977-xxx-xxxx, following the Philippine mobile number standard of 11 digits total.
Are there specific services associated with 0977 numbers?
No specific services are exclusively tied to 0977 numbers; they function like any other Globe mobile number.
Conclusion
The 0977 prefix represents just one part of Globe’s extensive numbering system, but understanding its significance provides practical benefits for communication and cost management. As a Globe/TM number, 0977 subscribers enjoy the coverage, technology, and promotional offers that come with being part of the Philippines’ largest telecommunications network.
As the telecommunications landscape continues to evolve with technologies like 5G and policies like number portability, the significance of prefixes like 0977 may change. However, for the foreseeable future, recognizing 0977 as a Globe/TM prefix remains valuable knowledge for Filipino mobile users.
Whether you’re optimizing your communication costs, choosing the right promo, or simply wanting to understand more about the Philippines’ telecommunications ecosystem, this knowledge about the 0977 prefix contributes to more informed mobile usage.
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.
