In light of ongoing developments in the Middle East, PLDT and Smart Communications inc. are offering free International Direct Dial (IDD) until June 25, 2025 (PHT) to Iran and Israel from the Philippines to help Filipino families stay connected with their loved ones overseas.
The free call window will be available for a limited time and is open to all PLDT landline subscribers nationwide. Smart, PLDT’s wholly-owned mobile network, is now offering free calls, data roaming, and Smart Care Crisis Hotline +63288457799 until June 25.
The initiative aims to provide timely support and reassurance to communities with family members in affected regions.
“Communication is especially critical during uncertain times,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman and CEO of PLDT. “We want to help give peace of mind to Filipinos who simply want to hear their loved ones’ voices and know they’re safe.”
“Our hearts go out to every Filipino in Israel and Iran, and to the families here at home who are anxious and waiting for news,” added John Palanca, Head of PLDT Home. “In moments like these, the power of a simple call—of hearing a loved one’s voice—means everything.”
PLDT is closely monitoring traffic conditions and working with international partners to ensure reliable call quality during the free-call period. More details on the schedule and guidelines will be announced via PLDT’s official channels.
The initiative is part of Smart Cares, the company’s ongoing commitment to help Filipinos stay connected during emergencies and crises. Over 31,800 Filipinos live and work in Iran and Israel—each one a vital link to a Filipino family, representing over 150,000 loved ones who may be anxiously waiting for news from their relatives abroad. Smart hopes to provide them some relief and peace of mind during this uncertain time.
During the three-day window, Smart prepaid and postpaid subscribers can make free landline and mobile calls to loved ones in Iran and Israel, subject to a fair use policy of 5 minutes per call.
In addition, Smart subscribers currently in Israel will receive free GigaRoam Global 1GB data roaming access, allowing them to stay connected online without incurring additional charges.
The toll-free service Smart Care Crisis Hotline: +63288457799 serves as a critical fallback when other communication channels are unavailable. Through the hotline, Smart can help troubleshoot connectivity issues for affected users, assist those unable to reach their families in the Philippines, and support Filipinos who cannot get through to the Philippine Embassy or OWWA. The hotline will also provide verified updates and safety advisories to help users navigate the situation with reliable information.
