For the growing number of Filipinos who may be away from the Philippines for one reason or another, communicating with loved ones back home is essential, wherein cheap telephone calls may be one of those means to stay connected.

Other lines of communication may include email, instant messaging, or texting, but sometimes there is no substitute to the sound of the voice of either Tatay, Nanay, Kuya, Ate, Lolo, Lola, or that special person. In this day and age, making phone calls be made via land lines, via voice over internet protocol (VOIP)-enabled phones (internet phones), or as an alternative, thru the use of so-called "phone cards", which are marketed at discounted rates based on pre-purchased designated number of minutes.

Reasons for calling may vary but may be more compelling especially in times of holidays, anniversaries, or significant events such as births, deaths, marriages. But as always, anytime is a good time to stay connected with relatives and friends, such as via cheap calls to the Philippines.

(Video from youtube.com; posted by MrGregounettt on 06.27.11)