Quick answer
Install a Philippines eSIM on Wi-Fi before you fly, or on Wi-Fi when you land at Ninoy Aquino Airport (MNL). Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM and choose it for mobile data. It connects to Globe as a roaming line, at no extra charge, so you can open maps, Grab, and WhatsApp.
Should I buy a SIM at the airport or use an eSIM?
A Philippines eSIM is data you install from a QR in your email. You do not upload documents, and you do not need a local phone number for maps, Grab, or WhatsApp. WhatsApp calls work over this data.
Your home SIM can stay in the phone for texts. Keep Data Roaming off on that line so your own carrier does not charge you.
When should I install the eSIM?
Install it on Wi-Fi, the day before you fly or when you have Wi-Fi after you land. Plan days start when you install. Each day ends at 11:59 PM Philippine time, including the first day, so pick one day more than your stay. The QR arrives by email, stays on your order page, is valid for 30 days, and scans once.
- 1Scan the QR on Wi-Fi and label the new line “Philippines”.
- 2On landing, turn off airplane mode.
- 3Turn on Data Roaming for the Philippines line, and choose it for mobile data.
- 4Keep Data Roaming off on your home SIM.
- 5Open a map or Grab before you leave, so you know the eSIM is working.
What can I do with data at MNL?
Use it for maps, Grab, and messages to your hotel. Grab can be used where the app offers a ride. This eSIM does not include ride fares, and it has no phone number.
A short Manila stop fits 1 or 3 days at 1 GB a day. If Manila is only the first stop, pick a plan that covers the rest of the trip.
What if I have not installed the eSIM yet?
You need Wi-Fi to install. Open the email or your order page, scan the QR from a second screen, or type the manual install code under the QR. Then turn on Data Roaming for the Philippines line and pick it for mobile data. The APN is mobile.three.com.hk and is usually set on its own.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Data Roaming on at Ninoy Aquino?
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Yes, for the eSIM line. It connects to Globe as a roaming line, at no extra charge. Keep roaming off on your home SIM.
Does Grab work on this eSIM?
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Yes. Grab runs over this data, like other apps, where Grab offers a ride. TikTok and most AI apps, such as ChatGPT, do not work on this eSIM.
Which plan suits a short Manila stop?
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1 day or 3 days at 1 GB a day. Days start when you install, and each day ends at 11:59 PM Philippine time, so pick one day more than your stay.
Related guides
Philippines trip checklist: eSIM, pesos, and apps
What to sort out before you fly.
How to install a Philippines eSIM on iPhone
Scan the QR, label the line, and turn on Data Roaming.
Philippines eSIM not working? Fixes for no data after landing
Checks to run in the arrivals hall.
Manila eSIM guide: maps, Grab, and a short city stop
A short city stop, or the start of a longer trip.