I can only tell you my own experience. When I first started calling Rhoda (my girlfriend) I used my long distance plan, I must add I am a yank... Anyway, I racked up a $350 phone bill in a matter of 2 weeks. Then I went to WallMart and bought a calling card for $20 US for 200 min. After that I was able to renew the card for .6 cents a min by adding additional min via my American Express card. This way I don't have to buy a new card every time. To avoid dealing with any long distance plans, I have found this to be the best way. The line is clear and I get through ALMOST every time. Only twice was I unable to get through or get a clear connection. When that happened I called customer service and they added additional min to make up for my frustration. More min than I started with. I have been happy with this and I will continue to use this card. Rhoda is now in Japan, the only thing I can say is both phone and mail work better in Japan than the Philippines. Bottom line... the phone and mail system sucks in the Philippines. I hope this helps.:wink