The search query “where is +63” is most often used to quickly identify the nation responsible for a missed call or message displaying the international dialing code.
The country code +63 is the international telephone code assigned to The Philippines. Any call or text message initiated with +63 is coming from, or spoofed to look like it is coming from, the Philippines, a major global hub for business outsourcing and personal communication.
Understanding the correct dialing format and the modern risks associated with unsolicited international contact is essential for protecting yourself from scams.
-
Location and Time Zone
The +63 country code serves the entire Philippines archipelago.
Geographic and Time Zone Details
- Country: The Philippines (Republic of the Philippines)
- Continent: Southeast Asia
- Time Zone: Philippine Time (PHT). This is a standard time zone set at UTC+8 hours year-round.
Note: The Philippines does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Major City Area Codes
To complete a call to the Philippines, you need the country code, followed by the area code (for landlines) or mobile prefix:
| City/Region | Area Code | Local Number Length |
| Manila / Metro Manila | 2 | 8 digits (Landline) |
| Cebu City | 32 | 7 digits (Landline) |
| Davao City | 82 | 7 digits (Landline) |
| Mobile Phones | 9XX (e.g., 917, 922) | 10 digits total (e.g., +63 9XX XXX XXXX) |
-
How to Dial a Philippines Number Correctly
When dialing internationally, you must always drop the local trunk code (usually a ‘0’) and start with the international access code followed by the country code +63.
International Dialing Format (from US/Canada)
- Dial International Access Code: Dial 011 (or simply the + sign on a mobile phone).
- Dial the Country Code: 63.
- Dial the Area Code/Mobile Prefix: Dial the local area code or the 9XX mobile prefix, dropping the leading ‘0’ that is used for domestic calls.
- Dial the Local Number: The remaining digits.
Example (Calling a Manila Landline): +63 2 XXXX XXXX (The ‘0’ before the area code ‘2’ is dropped).
-
Scam and Security Warning (The +63 Risk)
The Philippines is a common source of legitimate business calls (especially in the BPO/call center industry), but the +63 code is also frequently used by international scammers.
Unsolicited Calls and Texts
- High Risk of Scams: Be highly vigilant if you receive an unexpected text message (smishing) or call displaying the +63 code. Scammers often use these lines for common frauds, such as fake package delivery alerts, “e-toll violation” texts, or phishing attacks impersonating major companies like Apple or banking institutions.
- The Job Scam: A prevalent scam involves unsolicited messages (often on WhatsApp or SMS) offering lucrative, part-time work, requiring you to click a link or send money upfront.
Actionable Safety Advice
- Do Not Click Links: Never click a link in an unexpected text message, especially one originating from the +63 country code, as it likely leads to a fraudulent site designed to steal login credentials.
- Verify Legitimate Business: If you receive a call you suspect might be legitimate (e.g., from a customer service center), hang up and call the company back using the official phone number listed on their verified website.
- Block and Report: Block the number on your device immediately and report the text message to your carrier by forwarding it to the shortcode 7726 (SPAM).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I answer an unknown call from +63?
No. If you are not actively expecting a call from The Philippines, it is safest to silence the call and let it go to voicemail. This prevents confirming your line is active for future scam attempts.
Why do I get so many scam texts from +63?
Global scammers often use inexpensive virtual phone numbers associated with the +63 code to launch large-scale text message phishing campaigns (smishing). The cost-effectiveness of these services allows them to send millions of texts globally.
Is the area code for Manila just ‘2’?
Yes. The area code for Metro Manila is officially (02). When dialing internationally, the format is always +63 2 followed by the 8-digit landline number.
