Philippines Calling Codes: How to Dial

When you’re calling friends or family in the Philippines from overseas, you’ll need more than just their local number. International calls must include the calling code for the Philippines (+63) and the right area code so your call connects to the right region or mobile network.

And once you’ve said hello, Western Union is here if you need to send money to the Philippines and lend a little extra support.

Key takeaways

• The calling code for the Philippines is +63, where the “+” represents your country’s exit code.
• To call the Philippines from the US, you’ll need to dial the exit code (011), then the Philippines country code (63), followed by the area code and local number.
• Landlines use geographic area codes like 2 for Metro Manila or 32 for Cebu, while mobiles use 3-digit prefixes that often start with 9 (for example, 917).
• If your call doesn’t connect, double-check that you’ve included the correct country code, area or mobile code, and that your carrier allows international calls to the Philippines.

What is the country calling code for the Philippines?

To call the Philippines from another country, you’ll need to start with the Philippines’ calling code: +63. This code tells the global phone network to route your call to the Philippines.

In an international number format, the “+” symbol is a placeholder for your country’s international dialing prefix. In the US and Canada, this is 011. So, when you see a Filipino number written as +63, it means: Dial your exit code, then 63 before the rest of the number.

Major Philippines area codes to know

After dialing the country code (+63), you’ll need the correct area code to reach the right city or region in the Philippines. Landline area codes are 1 to 4 digits long and correspond to specific geographic areas.

Here are some of the most common area codes you’re likely to use:

 

If you’re calling a mobile phone in the Philippines, the area code will start with 9. Landlines, on the other hand, use geographic area codes like those in the table above.

So, the dialing format depends on whether you’re calling a landline or a mobile phone. For example, to call a landline number in Manila from the US, you might dial: 011 63 2 XXX XXXX.

How to call the Philippines from the US or abroad

Once you know the Philippines’ calling code, dialing from overseas is easy if you follow the steps in order:

1. Dial your country’s international exit code. From the US and Canada, this is 011. Many other countries use 00, or you can use the “+” symbol on a mobile phone instead of the exit code.
2. Enter the Philippines country code: 63.
3. Add the area code or mobile prefix—for example, 2 for Manila or Quezon City.
4. Dial the local number.

Dialing mobile numbers vs. landlines

When you’re calling a landline or a mobile phone in the Philippines, the steps you take to dial are the same. The area code will vary. Landlines use a city or regional area code, like 2 for metro Manila or 32 for Cebu, while mobile phones use a 3-digit mobile prefix, usually starting with 9 (for example, 917 or 905).

If you’re calling from a mobile phone, you can usually dial “+” instead of your country’s exit code.

Troubleshooting if your call didn’t connect

If your call to the Philippines didn’t go through, try these tips:

• Check you dialed correctly. Did you include your country’s exit code, the Philippines’ calling code (63), followed by the correct area code and local number?
• Confirm your phone plan allows international calls. Some carriers block or limit international dialing by default or require an add-on. You may need to enable it first.
• Try calling a different way. You could try again from another phone, or use an internet-based calling app over Wi-Fi as an alternative.

Tips to save money on calls to the Philippines

International calls to the Philippines can add up, but a few simple strategies can help cut costs:

• Use Wi-Fi calling apps like WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, or FaceTime Audio to place voice calls over the internet, which can be much cheaper than traditional international minutes, especially when both sides are on Wi-Fi.
• Check your carrier’s international plans before you dial. Many mobile providers offer discounted add-ons or bundles specifically for calls to popular destinations like the Philippines.
• Compare VoIP or calling card rates if you call often. Pay-as-you-go services may offer lower per-minute prices than standard carrier rates.
• Limit call time and mix in messaging or voice notes to stay connected without spending as much on live call minutes.

For more ideas, explore our guide on how to save money making international calls.

Staying connected with friends and family in the Philippines

Staying in touch with family and friends in the Philippines through a quick call, video chat, or simple message helps you feel close, even when you’re oceans apart. Once you know how to use the right calling codes, reaching out is easier than ever.

And when a conversation turns into a chance to help with everyday expenses, school fees, or a special occasion, Western Union is here to help. You can use the Western Union^® mobile app to send funds with just a few taps and check the latest USD-to-PHP exchange rate before you transfer.

Between calling, messaging, and sending money, there are more ways than ever to stay connected and show you care.