Filipino expats in UAE with roaming SIM cards must register by April 26 under new law 2023

Filipino expats in the UAE who are using roaming SIM cards from back home have only a few days left to register their mobile numbers under the new law issued by the Philippine government.

Local authorities have confirmed that no extension will be given: All Philippine SIM cards — including those used overseas — should be registered by April 26.

Those who fail to comply will have their numbers deactivated. Certain fines and imprisonment will also apply to those caught violating key provisions of the law. (Read more about the penalties below.)

Philippine President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 11934 — also known as An Act Requiring the Registration of SIM Cards — in a ceremony held in Malacañan Palace in October 2022. With an aim to curb text scams, cybercrimes, terrorism, and other criminal activities, the law took effect on December 27.