Mobile users in the Philippines often find themselves asking, 0981 what network This is especially common for prepaid subscribers who want to take advantage of promos that work best within the same network. Knowing which network a mobile number belongs to helps avoid unnecessary costs, reduces confusion, and ensures better communication. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 0981 prefix, what network it belongs to, and why it matters.

0981 what network and why it’s important

When you receive a call or text from an unfamiliar number that starts with 0981, one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “0981 what network is this?” In the Philippines, mobile numbers start with a 4-digit prefix that identifies the network provider.

To answer it clearly: 0981 is a mobile prefix under Smart Communications.

Smart is one of the largest telecom operators in the country, and it uses a wide range of prefixes, including 0981. The prefix serves as an indicator of the original mobile network assigned to that number. This is important for subscribers who rely on network-specific promos for calls, texts, or mobile data.

Understanding how 0981 what network works in mobile prefixes

In the Philippines, mobile numbers are 11 digits long and typically start with 09. The first four digits (e.g., 0981) are called prefixes, and they’re assigned to telcos by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). These prefixes make it easier for subscribers to identify which network a number belongs to.

When people ask, 0981 what network they’re usually trying to find out if the number belongs to Smart, Globe, DITO, or another telecom provider so they can communicate at the lowest possible cost.

Prefixes like 0981 are still very useful, even though technology is evolving, because many promos are network-exclusive, and rates often differ for in-network and out-of-network services.

Why people frequently search 0981 what network

There are many reasons why people want to know “0981 what network”:

• To choose the correct SIM: Dual-SIM phones are common in the Philippines. Knowing if 0981 is Smart helps users decide which SIM to use for calling or texting.
• To subscribe to the right promo: Most telecoms offer unlimited or discounted rates within the same network.
• To verify authenticity: Users often receive promotional or scam messages. Identifying the network helps validate the source.
• To avoid extra charges: Calls and texts outside your own network can cost significantly more.

Understanding that 0981 is a Smart number gives you a clear advantage in all of these scenarios.

Can 0981 what network be a different provider now?

Although 0981 is originally assigned to Smart, there is a twist to be aware of. Since the implementation of the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Act in 2021, users can now switch networks without changing their number — prefix included. This means someone with a number starting in 0981 could technically be using Globe, DITO, or another provider, although the number still looks like a Smart line.

So, does this make the question “0981 what network” obsolete?

Not at all. Despite MNP, the majority of subscribers have stayed with their original network. In practice, when you see a number that begins with 0981, it is highly likely to still be part of the Smart network.

List of Smart prefixes including 0981 what network

To give you more context, here are some mobile prefixes officially associated with Smart Communications, alongside 0981:

• 0908
• 0918
• 0920
• 0921
• 0939
• 0947
• 0981
• 0998
• 0999

These prefixes are helpful if you’re trying to sort contacts or manage SIM cards based on network. Many Filipinos who manage multiple phones or SIMs often rely on such prefix knowledge to optimize usage and spending.

So when you ask, “0981 what network?”, remember it’s part of a broader group of Smart prefixes.

How to confirm 0981 what network using online tools

Because of Mobile Number Portability, just identifying the prefix might not be enough in rare cases. If you want to be 100% sure about “0981 what network”, there are tools you can use:

1. Mobile Prefix Checker Apps – These are available for Android and iOS and let you input a full mobile number to identify the current provider.
2. Telecom Websites – Official websites of Smart, Globe, and DITO offer updated prefix lists and support information.
3. Ask the Number’s Owner – The simplest method is just asking the person or business using the 0981 number.
4. NTC Listings – The NTC (National Telecommunications Commission) provides public listings of assigned mobile prefixes.

Even with portability, in over 90% of cases, the prefix remains a reliable way to identify the network.

Benefits of knowing 0981 what network

Being able to answer “0981 what network” accurately offers real advantages:

• Save money on calls and texts: Know when to use unlimited in-network promos.
• Avoid confusion: Particularly helpful when managing business or family accounts.
• Stay protected from scams: Identifying the network helps evaluate if a message or call is legitimate.
• Improve communication: Faster and more affordable communication when using compatible networks.

Mobile users in the Philippines are budget-conscious, and rightly so. With so many daily promos based on networks, it’s smart to know if a number like 0981 is from Smart — and it is.

Common questions about 0981 what network

Is 0981 a Smart or Globe number?
It is a Smart Communications number.

Can an 0981 number be moved to another network?
Yes, but only if the user has applied for Mobile Number Portability. Otherwise, it remains a Smart number.

Are all 0981 numbers prepaid?
No. Both prepaid and postpaid users may have 0981 numbers.

Is 0981 also used by TNT or Sun?
Yes. TNT and Sun are both brands under Smart Communications, so 0981 could also belong to those sub-brands.

Where can I find updated prefix lists?
Visit telecom providers’ websites or search for updated prefix lists published by the NTC.

Also read 0953 What Network Is Behind This Code

Final thoughts on 0981 what network

To summarize, if you’ve been wondering “0981 what network,” the simple answer is Smart Communications. This prefix is officially assigned to Smart, one of the top mobile networks in the Philippines. While the introduction of Mobile Number Portability has made it technically possible to use an 0981 number with another provider, most numbers are still under Smart.

Whether you’re looking to save on promos, avoid costly inter-network charges, or simply stay informed, knowing the answer to “0981 what network” helps you become a smarter mobile user. So the next time a number starting with 0981 calls you — now you know exactly who you’re dealing with.

Would you like a free downloadable chart of all Philippine mobile prefixes by network?