I’m ready for my flight in Hongkong! Itinerary (check), traveling essentials (check), cameras and batteries (check), PLENTY of alcohol (check, a must especially with the swine flu scare). Part of my to-do-list is activate international roaming of my Globe and Prepaid sim cards so that I won’t miss important messages while I’m away.

How to activate Globe international roaming (activation is free of charge):

Text GROAM ON <startdate mm/dd/yyyy> and send to 2884

Example:  GROAM ON 06/01/2008

How to make calls while roaming:

Dial *131* + country code + area code (or operator code) + phone number + # sign.
e.g. *131*6327301000# if landline or *131*639178000000# if mobile and press SEND.

How to send text messages while roaming (Php 25 per SMS sent):

Use the International Number format when sending a message to someone: “+” + country code + mobile access number + mobile number.

Example: +639xxxxxxxxxx, and press SEND

How to reload your Globe sim card while roaming:

Dial *123*(Prepaid Call Card Number and PIN)# and press send. There is no space between the Prepaid Call Card Number and PIN. Press SEND.

Example: *123*0394466245495296# press SEND.

A message will flash on your phone – “Please wait while we process your request.” If reloading is successful, you will get a message via SMS “Your top-up is successful. Your new balance is now Peso xxxx.xx”

Customer Service Hotline when roaming:

Call the 24 hour Globe roaming support hotline at *131*6327301212# then press “CALL”. Corresponding charges apply for the call if you use your Globe handyphone.

How to activate Smart international roaming (minimum balance of Php 100 is required to activate roaming):

Text ROAM ON and send to 333

How to make calls while roaming:

Enter the number you wish to call following the format:

+ Country code Mobile code Mobile number (Example: + 63 919 1234567)

Press Send.

Wait for the confirmation message: “Pls. wait, we are connecting your call… Pls. answer when the phone rings.”

Wait for your phone to ring (do not use your phone while waiting for the call back service). Answer the call. You will hear a ringing tone at the end of the line. Wait for the destination number to pick up.

How to send text messages while roaming:

Use the International Number format when sending a message to someone: “+” + country code + mobile access number + mobile number.

Example: +639xxxxxxxxxx, and press SEND

How to check your Smart load balance while roaming:

Type “?1515” and send to 214.

How to reload your Smart sim card while roaming:

Text RELOAD <14-digit Card PIN> and send to 1510