Why an eSIM is Recommended for the Philippines
No Free EU Roaming
Unlike European countries, the Philippines do not benefit from free EU roaming. Your home plan will be expensive: between $2 and $5 per MB depending on your carrier. For a one-week trip with moderate usage (browsing, social media), you can easily spend $50 to $100 on roaming.
Free WiFi vs eSIM
Free WiFi is indeed widespread in the Philippines (hotels, cafes, shopping malls), but it has risks:
- Security: unsecured public networks, hacking risks
- Reliability: unstable connections, frequent dropouts
- Mobility: impossible to use while traveling (transport, excursions)
- Limited coverage: WiFi often unavailable on isolated islands
An eSIM offers secure and reliable connectivity everywhere, even in remote areas. However, coverage may be limited on some remote islands.
Network Coverage in the Philippines
The Philippines have good 4G coverage in cities but variable on islands thanks to three major carriers:
| Carrier |
Coverage |
5G |
Market Share |
Used by |
| Globe Telecom |
95% (cities), variable (islands) |
Yes (cities) |
50% (leader) |
GoMoWorld, Airalo |
| Smart (PLDT) |
94% (cities), variable (islands) |
Yes (cities) |
40% |
LinkeSIM, Saily |
| DITO |
70% (major cities) |
In deployment |
10% |
Holafly |
Coverage by destination
- Manila: perfect 4G/5G throughout the capital
- Cebu: excellent coverage in the city and tourist areas
- Boracay: good coverage on the island and beaches
- Palawan (El Nido, Coron): good coverage in tourist areas, variable in isolated areas
- Bohol: good coverage in the city and tourist areas
- Siargao: variable coverage depending on areas of the island
- Other islands: limited coverage on some remote islands, check before leaving
Warning: Coverage may be limited on some remote islands. Plan a plan with more data if you visit multiple islands.
How to Install Your Philippines eSIM
- Purchase your plan (QR code received by email in 2 min)
- Install 24-48h before departure from your WiFi
- Activate upon arrival in the Philippines (timer starts)
- Keep your home SIM for calls and texts
Compatibility: iPhone XS+, Samsung S20+, Pixel 3+, Xiaomi 12+, OnePlus 8+
Best Philippines eSIM 2026
Why these providers?
- GoMoWorld: Globe Telecom network (leader 50%), code ESIMP (-10%), best value for money
- Airalo: global leader (8M+ users), Globe Telecom network, code ESIMP15 (-15%)
- Holafly: unlimited + hotspot, ideal for heavy users and families
- LinkeSIM: cheapest, perfect for small budgets
- Saily: built-in NordVPN to secure public WiFi connections
Conclusion
For all travelers to the Philippines, an eSIM is highly recommended as home roaming costs very expensive ($2 to $5 per MB).
Best choice: GoMoWorld 10 GB at $6.30 with code ESIMP offers the best value for money for a classic stay.
For heavy users: Holafly unlimited eliminates any stress, even for streaming and hotspot.
Small budget: LinkeSIM 10 GB at $4.12 remains very economical.
Warning: Coverage may be limited on some remote islands. Plan a plan with more data if you visit multiple islands.
Philippines eSIM FAQ
