If you have a missed call or are looking to contact someone using the +63 country code, you are reaching the Southeast Asian island nation of the Philippines.
The code +63 is the official international country calling code for the Philippines. As an expert in telecommunications, it is important to note that while +63 is the essential prefix for all calls to the Philippines, it is also frequently used by scammers targeting users in North America and elsewhere with phishing messages and identity theft attempts.
This comprehensive guide details the dialing format, major city codes, and crucial safety information for any communication related to the +63 country code.
The +63 Country Code: Location and Numbering System
The Philippines uses an open numbering plan, which requires landline callers to use area codes, while mobile phone numbers follow a standardized 10-digit format.
Key Facts About +63
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Philippines (Entire Archipelago) |
| Capital City | Manila |
| Time Zone | Philippine Standard Time (PST) – UTC+8:00 |
| Landline Number Length | 8 digits (excluding the area code) |
| Mobile Number Length | 10 digits (including the prefix 9XX) |
How to Correctly Dial a Philippine Number
The dialing process depends on whether you are calling a landline (which requires an area code) or a mobile phone (which requires a network prefix).
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions (Example from the US/Canada)
- Dial the Exit Code: Dial 011 (the standard US/Canada exit code). You can use the plus sign + on a mobile device instead of 011.
- Dial the Country Code: Dial 63.
- Dial the Local Number:
| To Call | Local Code (Area or Prefix) | Full International Format Example |
| Landline in Metro Manila | 2 (The official code) | 011 – 63 – 2 – XXXX XXXX |
| Landline in Cebu City | 32 | 011 – 63 – 32 – XXXX XXX |
| Any Mobile Phone | 9XX (The 3-digit mobile prefix) | 011 – 63 – 9XX – XXXX XXX |
Key Landline Area Codes
The longest landline number (excluding the country code) is 9 digits (1-2 digit area code + 7-8 digit subscriber number).
- Manila / National Capital Region: 2
- Cebu City: 32
- Davao City: 82
Time Zone and International Call Considerations
Time Zone
The Philippines observes Philippine Standard Time (PST) at UTC+8:00 year-round.
- Time Difference: The Philippines is typically 12 hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Time (EST). If it is 9:00 AM EST in New York, it is 9:00 PM PST in Manila.
Scam and Safety Risk from +63
The +63 country code is heavily associated with global phishing and identity theft scams, particularly those delivered via SMS text messages (Smishing).
- Scam Tactic: Toll/Delivery Phishing: Victims frequently receive texts from +63 numbers impersonating trusted US brands, delivery services (USPS/Amazon), or state toll agencies (E-ZPass). These texts claim you have an unpaid fee or missed package and ask you to click a malicious link to “pay” or “update details.”
- Identity Theft: The goal is to steal your credit card information, driver’s license number, or other sensitive data.
Safety Tip: If you receive an unexpected text message from a +63 number, DO NOT click the link and DO NOT reply. The number is likely spoofed and the message is designed to defraud you. Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) and delete them immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a US area code 63?
No. The digits 63 are an international country code and are not an active, reserved, or planned area code within the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
Do I omit the leading zero (0) when calling a Philippine mobile number internationally?
Yes. All Philippine mobile numbers are generally 10 digits in the national format (starting with 09XX). When dialing internationally, you omit the leading ‘0’ and dial the full number after the country code: +63 9XX XXXX XXXX.
How can I make cheap calls to the +63 country code?
International calls to the Philippines can be costly. The most affordable options are typically:
- VoIP Apps: Use internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or FaceTime Audio over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- International Calling Plans: Purchase a low-cost international package from your mobile carrier.
Conclusion
The +63 country code is the definitive international dialing code for the Philippines. While it is an essential code for legitimate communication, users should be highly vigilant of unsolicited communications from this prefix, as it is a major vector for text message phishing scams worldwide.
