Big telcos preparing for SIM registration rush

MANILA, Philippines — Three big telecommunications companies (telcos) are preparing for a scenario of SIM (subscriber identity module) card holders or subscribers rushing to register as the April 26 deadline nears.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said DITO Telecommunity Corp., Globe Telecom Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. are getting ready for a surge in registrants as the countdown begins.

With about three weeks left before the deadline, more than 100 million subscribers have yet to register their SIMs, the DICT noted.

Recent statistics consolidated by the department showed that as of April 3, the total number of registered SIMs stood at 58,268,866, of which DITO has 4,452,203; Globe, 24,398,734 and Smart, 29,417,929.

The registered SIMs are just 34.48 percent of the 168,977,773 million subscribers nationwide.

Globe’s Channel Management Group head Cleo Santos urged customers to register before the deadline to avoid SIM deactivation.

“We have been going far and wide to reach our customers in remote areas and those who need assistance in registering their SIMs. Our online portal and app are accessible 24/7, and our Globe stores are also open to provide assistance,” Santos said.

Meanwhile, DICT Undersecretary and spokesperson Anna Mae Lamentillo cautioned the public to remain vigilant against scammers offering assistance with SIM registration.

“Be wary of entities who may have malicious intentions to steal personal information and commit fraud. Always register through official links of PTEs to avoid fraudulent activities,” she said.