Telecommunications provider PLDT, through its broadband arm PLDT Home, is offering free international calls to several countries in the Middle East to help Filipino families stay connected with loved ones amid ongoing developments in the region.
From March 1 to 7, PLDT Home subscribers in the Philippines may place free International Direct Dial (IDD) calls using their landlines to relatives and family members in affected countries. The initiative covers calls to Bahrain (+973), Kuwait (+965), Iraq (+964), Oman (+968), Qatar (+974), Saudi Arabia (+966), United Arab Emirates (+971), Israel (+972), and Iran (+98).
To place an IDD call, subscribers must dial “00” followed by the country code, area or mobile code, and the recipient’s phone number.
There is no limit to the number of calls that may be made per day, although each call is capped at 30 minutes.
PLDT said the move aims to ease communication for Filipino families during uncertain times by removing international call charges.
PLDT Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Manuel V. Pangilinan announced the initiative through a post on X, emphasizing the company’s commitment to keeping families connected.
“The marching order is to make it easy for our countrymen to reach their loved ones and vice versa,” Pangilinan said.
In addition, the PLDT Group has activated its 24/7 Smart crisis hotline at +63288457799 for those seeking assistance in contacting relatives in the Philippines. Overseas Filipinos may also reach the Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration hotline 1348 for free through the TinBo app.
