In the past, it was common in the Philippines to buy a SIM card and start using it ight away, with no identity check or verification. But due to the rising number of mobile-related scas, frauds, and anonymous harassment, the government stepped in with strict regulations. One of the country’s most widely used prepaid SIMs, TM (Touch Mobile) by Globe Telecom, is directly affected by these new laws. To protect users and promote responsible mobile usage, TM users are now required to follow specific government-mandated SIM registration rules.
Legal Background: The SIM Registration Act
The basis for these new rules is Republic Act No. 11934, also known as the SIM Registration Act. It was officially signed into law by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on October 10, 2022, and became effective on December 27, 2022. The law aims to address growing concerns about cybercrime, online scams, text spam, and the use of untraceable mobile numbers in illegal activities. Under this law, all users, whether they’re TM prepaid, postpaid, or broadband customers, they must register their SIM cards with proper identification.
This law does not target TM users specifically; it applies to all telecom companies and their subscribers nationwide. However, since TM is a budget-friendly brand with millions of prepaid users, the registration policy significantly impacts its customer base. TM has taken steps to comply with this national regulation by setting up dedicated registration systems and guidelines.
Who Needs to Register a TM SIM
The law clearly states that every SIM user in the Philippines must register. That includes new and existing TM users, whether they are residents, foreign visitors, business users, or even minors. If you buy a new TM SIM today, you cannot use it until you complete the registration. For older SIMs, the registration period ended in July 2023, and unregistered SIMs were deactivated shortly after that.
Foreigners using a TM SIM while visiting the Philippines are also required to register their SIMs, though the rules for them are slightly different. Minors are not allowed to register a SIM in their name directly, but their parents or legal guardians can do so on their behalf. Likewise, companies or businesses that use TM SIMs for official use must follow corporate registration rules.
Requirements for TM SIM Registration
For Filipino Citizens
All Filipino citizens who want to register their TM SIM must provide basic personal information. This includes their full name, date of birth, gender, home address, and valid government-issued ID. Acceptable IDs include the Philippine National ID (PhilSys), driver’s license, passport, UMID, SSS or GSIS ID, and others.
The ID must be clear, valid, and preferably not expired. Additionally, users are asked to upload a selfie photo holding their ID for identity verification. These requirements are in place to prevent the use of fake names or stolen identities during registration.
For Foreign Nationals
Foreigners using TM SIM cards in the Philippines—whether for travel, work, or study—must follow a slightly stricter set of rules. Tourists must submit their passport, proof of Philippine address (such as a hotel or Airbnb booking), and a return or onward ticket to confirm their short stay. Their SIM will be valid for 30 days only, after which it will be automatically deactivated.
For foreign nationals staying longer—such as workers, diplomats, or students—they must submit additional documents. These include Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR), employment permit, student visa, or school ID. The goal is to ensure the SIM is linked to a real person with legal permission to stay in the country.
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For Minors
Minors (individuals under 18 years old) are not allowed to register a SIM card under their own name. However, their parent or legal guardian can do it for them. In this case, the SIM is officially registered under the guardian’s name, and the guardian’s valid ID and written consent are required.
This rule ensures that mobile numbers used by children are monitored and remain accountable to a responsible adult. It also helps prevent the misuse of SIM cards by minors in ways that could violate the law or put them at risk.
For Businesses and Organizations
Companies that use TM SIMs for operations, customer support, or delivery services must follow corporate registration guidelines. This includes providing a copy of the SEC or DTI registration certificate, a Board Resolution or Special Power of Attorney (SPA) authorizing a company representative to handle the registration, and the business’s official address.
Each corporate SIM must be linked to an authorized person within the company, and any changes in responsibility must be updated with the telecom provider. This adds another layer of accountability and transparency for mobile usage in the business sector.
SIM Registration Rules Under the Law
Mandatory Registration Before Use
One of the most important rules is that no SIM card may be activated without registration. If you buy a new TM SIM, it will remain unusable until the required information is submitted and verified. This rule aims to block access to anonymous SIMs that could be used for illegal or harmful purposes.
Existing users were given a grace period to register their SIMs, and once the deadline passed in July 2023, unregistered SIMs were permanently deactivated. TM followed this policy strictly in line with the government’s enforcement.
False Information is a Criminal Offense
Submitting fake names, photos, or ID documents during the registration process is considered a criminal act under the law. Penalties include fines ranging from ₱100,000 to ₱1,000,000, and in some cases, imprisonment of up to two years. Using someone else’s identity or selling your registered SIM to another person is also illegal.
These measures are in place to protect users and maintain a secure telecom environment. They also help law enforcement agencies trace mobile activity when crimes are committed using mobile networks.
Limited Validity for Foreigners
If you’re a tourist, your registered TM SIM will only remain active for 30 days. After that, it will be automatically cut off, unless you apply for an extension and submit additional documentation. For longer stays, such as employment or study, foreign users must prove their legal presence through visas and permits.
This rule ensures that SIM cards used by non-residents do not remain active indefinitely, especially if they leave the country. It also prevents misuse of Philippine SIM cards abroad.
Business SIMs Must Be Properly Declared
When companies use TM SIMs for official work, those numbers must be declared as company-owned, and registration should be done by an authorized individual. Any transfer or reassignment must be reported, and failure to register business SIMs can result in penalties or service suspension.
The law treats corporate SIMs with the same level of responsibility as individual ones, to ensure mobile communication remains traceable and secure.
Data Privacy and Confidentiality
The information collected during SIM registration is kept confidential under the Data Privacy Act. TM and other telecom providers are not allowed to share or sell your data to any third party. Only in situations where a court order or legal subpoena is issued can your information be disclosed to authorities.
This rule is meant to balance national security with the protection of individual privacy. Users can feel more secure knowing their data is not freely accessible.
Conclusion
The TM SIM registration rules are part of a wider effort by the Philippine government to create a safer and more responsible mobile environment. Whether you’re a regular Filipino user, a foreign traveler, a student, or a business, these rules apply equally to all. Following them not only keeps your number active but also helps in protecting your identity and personal information.
While it might feel like a hassle at first, the long-term benefits of reducing fraud, scams, and identity misuse are worth it. TM subscribers should take these rules seriously to ensure uninterrupted service and legal compliance. Responsible mobile usage starts with proper registration.