It’s a problem faced by many living in the Philippines — whenever one has to change network providers or shift to a postpaid line, the person is forced to change his or her number. It’s a hassle especially for people who have tons of people to inform about the change.
However, that will soon become history when House Bill 7652, which was approved by Congress yesterday during its third and final reading, becomes a law.
Also known as the Mobile Number Portability Act, the bill was filed by Marinduque Representative Lord Allan Velasco. GMA News reported that once it becomes law, it will allow subscribers to retain their old numbers even when they change providers or upgrade to a postpaid line. The service will be provided for free.
Yup, you’ll no longer have to spend an hour just to tell all of your friends and family about your new number.
READ: Love your cell phone number? Senate approved a bill that will let you keep it forever
The bill was passed with 216 affirmative votes. No one abstained or rejected the bill, according to BusinessWorld.
But there’s a catch: this benefit can only be enjoyed by people who register their name and mobile number with their original network providers, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
Make sure your bills are paid, too. Those who have outstanding bills with the original network provider are barred from using the service.
Meanwhile, the new provider will activate the number within 24 hours, according to GMA News.
The Senate already approved its version of the bill in February. Both bills are scheduled to be reconciled on Sept. 13, according to BusinessWorld.
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