How to Call the Philippines Cheaply in 2025
Everything you need to know about making cheap calls to the Philippines without SIM cards, contracts, or overpriced rates.
🇵🇭 Why People Still Call the Philippines
Even in 2025, with video chats and instant messaging everywhere, traditional voice calls are still essential for staying in touch with the Philippines.
Whether you're:
- An overseas Filipino worker (OFW) keeping in touch with family
- A business owner coordinating with a supplier in Manila
- A tourist trying to contact a hotel or guide
- Or simply someone in a long-distance relationship
…you know that not everyone is on WhatsApp, Messenger, or Viber — especially when it comes to landlines, older relatives, or work contacts.
“Why is it so expensive to call the Philippines?”
Let’s fix that.
This guide will show you how to make cheap calls to the Philippines in 2025 — without SIM cards, without phone cards, and without paying your mobile carrier outrageous rates.
💸 What’s the Real Cost of Calling the Philippines?
International call rates vary wildly depending on your method. Here's a side-by-side comparison of what you might be paying:
| Method | Typical Cost/Min (USD) | Hidden Fees? | Needs Data? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Carrier Intl Plan | $0.30–$1.50 | Often (minimums, setup) | ❌ |
| Prepaid Phone Card | $0.10–$0.50 | Yes (connection fees) | ❌ |
| VoIP App (Skype, Viber Out) | $0.10–$0.25 | Sometimes | ✅ |
| Pay-as-you-go App (ZenCall) | $0.02–$0.04 | None | ✅ |
Even a few calls can rack up hundreds of dollars if you're using the wrong method.
✅ Best Ways to Make Cheap Calls to the Philippines
1. Use a Pay-as-You-Go App (No Contract Required)
In 2025, the easiest and most cost-effective way to call the Philippines is with browser-based or mobile apps like:
- ZenCall
- Rebtel
- Dingtone
- KeepCalling
These services let you dial Philippine numbers directly from your phone or computer. You buy credits as needed — no contract, no hidden fees.
Why it’s cheaper:
- No connection or maintenance fees
- Calls start from $0.02/min
- Only pay for what you use
2. Call Using Local Access Numbers (For Non-Smartphone Users)
Some services offer local access numbers to route calls internationally.
How it works:
- You dial a local number (like a U.S. number)
- The call is routed to the Philippines
- You pay a much lower rate
Great for:
- Older relatives
- Landline users
- Phones without data access
3. Use App-to-Phone Calling Credit (Skype, Google Voice, etc.)
Platforms like Skype, Viber Out, and Google Voice let you top up your balance and call Philippine numbers.
Typical rates:
- $0.10–$0.20/min for mobile
- Lower for landlines
4. Avoid These: SIM Cards and Phone Cards
Buying international SIM cards or calling cards often leads to:
- Confusing dialing steps
- High setup costs
- Expiring minutes
- Connection charges
Modern apps eliminate these problems entirely.
🌐 What About “Free” Calling Apps?
Apps like:
- WhatsApp
- Messenger
- Viber
- Telegram
- FaceTime Audio
...are only free when both users have the same app. You can’t call landlines or random mobile numbers this way.
📞 How to Dial the Philippines from Anywhere
Use the international format:
+63 [Area Code] [Phone Number]
Examples:
- Manila Landline:
+63 2 8123 4567 - Globe Mobile:
+63 917 123 4567 - Smart Mobile:
+63 921 234 5678
Most calling apps handle the "+" and country code automatically.
📲 Comparing the Best Apps for Cheap Calls to the Philippines
| App | Starting Rate/Min | Subscription Required? | App-to-Phone? | Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZenCall | $0.02 | ❌ | ✅ | Clean UI, great rates |
| Rebtel | ~$0.10 | ❌ | ✅ | Local number access |
| Skype Credit | ~$0.13 | ❌ | ✅ | Good global coverage |
| Viber Out | ~$0.18 | ❌ | ✅ | Better if already on Viber |
| Google Voice | ~$0.15 | ❌ | ✅ | U.S.-centric but useful backup |
🧠 Pro Tips to Save Even More on International Calling
- Use Wi-Fi to avoid mobile data charges
- Call during off-peak hours for better quality
- Top up only what you need — don’t overfund your account
- Short test calls help avoid wasting money
- Call landlines when possible — they’re usually cheaper
- Avoid services that round up to full minutes
👵 Calling Elderly Family Members in the Philippines?
Older people often:
- Don’t have smartphones
- Prefer landlines
- Ignore unknown app calls
That’s why using a direct dial app like ZenCall is essential. You can call their mobile or landline directly, from any country.
💬 What About Text Messaging?
Some apps let you send SMS to Philippine numbers — useful for:
- Reminders
- Account verifications
- People who don’t answer calls
Not all apps support this, so check before topping up.
🧾 Should You Worry About Connection Fees?
Yes — and here’s why:
Some services charge:
- Setup fees
- Maintenance fees
- Full-minute billing
With ZenCall, you get:
- Per-second billing
- No connection fees
- Transparent rates
That’s why it’s one of the best tools for cheap calls to the Philippines.
🛫 Remote Worker or Frequent Traveler?
If you're a digital nomad, expat, or traveler:
- No SIM needed
- No local number needed
- Just log in and dial
Browser-based services give you flexibility and control from anywhere in the world.
🔚 Final Thoughts: How to Call the Philippines Without Breaking the Bank
To recap:
✅ Skip the phone cards and carrier plans
✅ Use pay-as-you-go calling apps
✅ ZenCall offers some of the best rates in 2025
Whether you're calling family, friends, coworkers, or hotels — do it all for as little as $0.02/min, no contracts or hassles.
📞 Start Making Cheap Calls to the Philippines Today
Ready to start?
- No monthly fees
- No contracts
- Just reliable, cheap international calls
👉 Try ZenCall Now — calls to the Philippines from $0.02/min.