Amid tensions in Ukraine, Globe and Smart are extending assistance to Filipinos stranded in the country.
Globe offers free calls, texts, data to Filipinos in Ukraine
Globe subscribers currently using roaming services in Ukraine may connect with their loved ones with free 15 minutes of calls (incoming and outgoing), 15 texts to all networks, and 1GB of data (whichever service is currently available) valid for 7 days at no extra cost.
To avail of the free roaming service, customers only need to connect to one of Globe's roaming partners, Kyivstar or Life. Customers will receive a confirmation message indicating that the free roaming offer is now available for use. There is no registration required as this goodwill offer will be automatically provided to Globe users currently located in Ukraine.
To make a call, dial "+" plus country code, area code, and telephone number (ex. +63773101313) or dial "+" plus country code and mobile number (ex. +639171236745).
To send a text, type "+" plus country code and mobile number (ex. +639171236745).
To use the free 1GB data allocation, Globe users simply need to turn on mobile data and data roaming on their phone's settings and set the network connection to 3G or LTE. Meanwhile, postpaid customers are encouraged to only turn on their mobile data and data roaming once they have received the activation message.
Coco Domingo, Globe VP for Postpaid and International Business, said that they "understand how connectivity is crucial" to their customers in Ukraine at this moment of crisis.
Domingo also shared that they "hope to help them reach loved ones at home and let them know of their status," and they "believe this connection is critical especially during a difficult time."
Smart offers free roaming data
Smart is giving almost 1000 roaming customers in Ukraine free 1GB Gigaroam subscription valid for five days to help them place urgent calls and texts or to assure their families and friends of their safety.
Smart roamers in Ukraine can also get instant and free access to Smart's data roaming manager by going to gigaroam.smart.com.ph using their Smart roaming SIM.
Smart is providing over 1,000 roaming users in Ukraine with a free 1GB Gigaroam subscription valid for five days in order to assist them in making urgent calls and texts or assuring their relatives and friends of their safety.
Smart roamers in Ukraine can also access Smart's data roaming manager instantly and for free by visiting gigaroam.smart.com.ph with their Smart roaming SIM.
Alfredo Panlilio, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO, said that they are "monitoring the situation in Ukraine" and stand "ready to assist our kababayans."
Panlilio also stressed that communication is essential in these critical situations.
"It is important to equip them with services to help them communicate and access information, especially during time of crisis," said Panlilio.
He also added that they are "praying for their safety as they await repatriation or evacuation."
