Surf Without Limits: Best Unlimited Data Plans in the Philippines

Internet data is a necessity these days. A testament to that is the fact that 83% of Filipinos are internet users.^[1] Whether you’re using a smartphone or a computer, you need it to connect to the world for a variety of purposes—studying, video chatting,  shopping, working, booking flights, and more. 

Given the internet's importance, many find it convenient to use unlimited data plans. But what exactly are they and how can they help you? And if you’re planning to subscribe to one, what are your options? 

Learn more about unlimited data plans in the Philippines in this article. 

What are Unlimited Data Plans? 

Looking at its name, an unlimited data plan is simply an internet plan that doesn’t have a limit or cap on data usage. If you’re subscribed to such a plan, you won’t run out of internet data within a given period based on your contract. 

Unlimited internet plans in the Philippines are best for smartphone users who need to constantly stay connected, whether for work or leisure. To see if it’s the best connectivity set-up for you, check out its pros and cons: 

👍 Pros of Unlimited Data Plans

• An unlimited data plan doesn’t run out of internet data. You don’t have to worry about budgeting your data, especially if you’re a heavy internet user. 
• Since you don’t need to connect to a Wi-Fi network, you can connect to the internet even when you’re outdoors. This comes in handy when you’re using a navigation app while driving, or working at a coffee shop with no internet. 
• If you live alone, an unlimited data plan may be the best option since it’s generally more affordable than internet plans for residential clients. 
• Postpaid data plans come with a fixed monthly price tag. This means it’ll be easier for you to budget your connectivity costs. 

👎 Cons of Unlimited Data Plans

• Unlimited internet plans can be expensive if you’re not a heavy internet user. For that matter, consider subscribing to prepaid promos. 
• Connection may not be stable, depending on your location. 
• Some data plans may not be shareable. This means other devices can’t connect to your mobile data plan via hotspot. 

Best Unlimited Data Plans in the Philippines

How to get an unlimited data plan? You have a lot of options from the country’s leading telcos: Globe, Smart, and DITO.

📶 Globe

If you’re looking for the best sim card with unlimited data in the Philippines, consider postpaid plans from Globe’s GPlan line. These SIM-only plans come with a dedicated relationship manager and no contract for flexibility. 

Here are your options: 

How to Apply for Globe GPlan Platinum Plan Plus

1. Visit the GPlan page on Globe’s official online shop.^[2]
2. On the page, select the Platinum tab. 
3. Choose the plan you like and click Buy.
4. On the next page, enter your mobile number.
5. Click Proceed and follow the succeeding prompts to complete the transaction. 

Related: Getting a Postpaid Plan in the Philippines: Best Offers to Check Out

📶 Smart

Unlimited data plans from Smart come in postpaid and prepaid options. Check out the following: 

How to Apply for a Smart Postpaid Plan

1. Go to the Smart Postpaid page on Smart’s official website.^[2]
2. Select SIM-Only Plans. 
3. Click Apply Online. 
4. Your mobile number will be assigned to you. But if you want another number, choose from the selection of Standard Numbers (free) and Special Numbers (with a fee of ₱15,000). 
5. Select your SIM type. 
6. Click Add to Cart then follow the succeeding prompts to finish the transaction. 

How to Apply for a Smart Prepaid Unlimited Plan

Smart prepaid unlimited plans are available to Smart Prepaid and TNT subscribers. Keep in mind that this promo lasts until June 30, 2024. 

You can get this unlimited data plan via the following channels:

• SIM management system via *123# on your smartphone
• Convenience stores
• Smart booths at airports
• Accredited Smart retailers nationwide
• Smart App 

Read more: Best Prepaid WiFi Options for Remote Workers and Online Students

📶 DITO

If you’re looking for an unlimited data plan without a lock-in period, check out DITO’s FlexPlans:

How to Apply for a DITO Postpaid Unlimited Data Plan

1. Download DITO’s mobile app.^[4]
2. Under Explore DITO, click the FlexPlan banner. 
3. Click SIM Only and select your preferred plan. 
4. Choose your preferred number. If you want a personalized number, you’ll need to pay at least ₱5,000. 
5. The next step will determine if your area is covered by DITO. Once you’ve confirmed that your location is covered, you’ll need to provide your personal details, a valid government ID, and a selfie. 
6. Follow the succeeding prompts to finish the transaction. 

Read more: [Battle of the Brands] How to Choose Between Smart vs Globe vs DITO

What is the Fair Use Policy? 

The Fair Use Policy is a rule implemented to limit or cap one’s usage of mobile data over another user. That way, all users will experience the same quality of internet service. 

Take a look at this situation: when a lot of subscribers are doing data-heavy tasks, such as downloading big files and streaming videos in high definition, other users in the same network may experience slower internet speeds. To compensate, the network will reduce or cap the usage of said heavy data users. 

Fair use policies may vary from one network provider to another. If you want to know if your prospective unlimited data plans are covered by it, talk to your internet service provider. 

Read more: How to Check Your Broadband Performance with Internet Speed Tests

How to Maximize Your Unlimited Data Plan

There are various ways to make sure your unlimited data plan is working to your advantage. Check out these tips: 

• Delete the cache – Cache may slow down your mobile data, so clear it every now and then. Doing this will also free up storage space. 
• Close some of your apps – Apps running in the background may affect internet speed. As such, it’s practical to close some of them and even turn off auto updates. 
• Go outside – The materials of your place, such as concrete and glass, may interfere with your internet signal. Find a spot in your home without such obstructions. You may also choose to go outside to receive some signal. 
• Upgrade your phone – This is a must-do, especially if you want to get a 5G plan. Older mobile phones aren’t designed to use 5G. Newer models have functions and features that make for seamless internet signal reception. 
• Switch to another network – Sometimes, it’s not the device—it’s your service provider! To get a better internet signal, go for the network that has cell sites or facilities within or close to your location. 
• Get a new SIM card – Want 5G internet? Make sure your SIM card has 5G capabilities. While you’re at it, make sure you’re within a 5G location to make the most of your 5G data plan. 

Read more: Goodbye Lag: How to Control Bandwidth for Internet Speed

Final Thoughts 

Unlimited data plans in the Philippines are the norm these days, as everyone relies on connectivity for both work and leisure. These products make it easy to connect to the internet even when you’re out and about. 

While the telco brands above offer enticing packages, you need to look into your lifestyle first to make the most of the unlimited data plan you’ll choose. It also helps to visit their physical stores and talk to their sales agents. They can better explain the terms and conditions of the plans. 

And who knows, you may even score exclusive deals and discounts!

💳 Pay for Your Data Plan with a Credit Card

Enjoy perks such as points and cashback when you pay your bills using a credit card. Compare your options below and apply via Moneymax:

Credit Card	Bills Payment Perks
HSBC Red Mastercard	4x reward points on online subscriptions Pay multiple utility bills automatically with HSBC AutoCharge
Security Bank Complete Cashback Mastercard	3% rebate on bills payment Pay for utilities that require a bank deposit via SimplyPay Settle your monthly bills automatically with Security Bank Bills Assist Program
BPI Amore Cashback Card	1% cash back on bills payments Charge your utility bills automatically via AutoCharge
AUB Easy Mastercard	Choose when to pay your credit card bill Choose how much to pay with a fixed payment amount Instantly charge your utility bills through All-Ur-Bills

Sources: 

• ^[1] DICT: 83% of Pinoys are Internet Users, But… (The Philippine Star, 2023)
• ^[2] Globe Online Store
• ^[3] Smart Postpaid Page
• ^[4] DITO Mobile App (Android) | DITO Mobile App (iOS)
• ^[5] DITO Website