3G, also known as third generation mobile telecommunication, allows us to make video calls, watch mobile TV, connect to the internet via high-speed 3G/HSDPA. To offer 3G services, a telco must obtain a 3G license and must operate within the UMTS frequency band/s allocated by the NTC.

UMTS-2100 is the most widely deployed UMTS band. Band numbers are used to identify the UMTS frequencies. For example, Band I (2100 MHz), Band IV (1700/2100 MHz), and Band V (850 MHz). In the Philippines, telcos operate in the Band I (2100 MHz) or Band V (850 MHz) to offer 3G services nationwide.