Cingular Wireless, the second largest wireless carrier in the nation, announced early this morning it has initiated its first wireless number port request on behalf of the soon-to-be Cingular customer and five-time world boxing champion, Felix "Tito" Trinidad. The port request was submitted in Puerto Rico at 12:01 a.m. Atlantic Standard Time (11:01 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) and is believed to be one of the first in the country.
Beginning today, American consumers can switch their wireless service provider without changing their telephone number, or bring their landline telephone number to a wireless service account. The event, known as local number portability (LNP), is an industry-wide mandate by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
"Cingular's offerings have always interested me, and I like how their service allows customers to rollover any unused minutes each month," said Trinidad, the native Puerto Rican and multi-division boxing champion. "I'm excited about finally being able to check out what Cingular has to offer -- without having to replace the wireless number I've used for a long time."
"This port request marks the first step in realizing the biggest operational change the wireless industry has ever seen," stated Mario Garcia, president of Cingular Wireless in Puerto Rico. "We are extremely excited Mr. Trinidad has chosen Cingular as his new wireless partner, and we will continue working to provide the highest levels of satisfaction for all of our future customers."
Felix Trinidad's local number portability request will be processed later in the morning when all porting systems become fully operational. While Tito is awaiting confirmation, his existing wireless phone and service will remain active, assuring he and all customers always maintain wireless connectivity. Once his port request is processed and confirmed, Tito will receive a text-message on his new wireless phone welcoming him to Cingular Wireless. At that time, he can begin enjoying his new service from Cingular Wireless.