MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. witnessed the launch of a landmark partnership between Globe Telecom and Starlink aimed at delivering universal mobile connectivity to Filipinos, particularly those in remote and underserved areas nationwide.
Globe announced on Friday, January 16, that it is the first mobile network operator in the Philippines and Southeast Asia—and the second in Asia—to roll out Starlink’s Direct to Cell (DTC) satellite service. Set to be introduced this year, the technology allows users with standard LTE mobile phones to access essential mobile services, including data, voice, app-based messaging, and text messaging, as long as there is a clear view of the sky.
The service is expected to significantly improve connectivity in areas where terrestrial networks are unavailable or difficult to deploy—an important development for an archipelagic country with more than 7,600 islands.
By leveraging Starlink’s constellation of over 650 low-Earth orbit satellites, Globe aims to address mobile coverage gaps in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). The initiative also supports the government’s digital inclusion efforts by enabling access to digital public services, including the eGov App.
Globe said the satellite-to-mobile service will benefit the remaining four percent of the Filipino population living in areas without terrestrial mobile coverage, particularly in rural and maritime communities. The technology is designed to complement existing infrastructure and serve as a resilient backup when conventional networks are disrupted.
The partnership is also expected to enhance disaster preparedness and response, as the DTC service can help maintain essential communication during extreme weather events and natural disasters, ensuring connectivity for affected communities and first responders.
“This partnership with Starlink marks a historic step in our mission to build a digitally inclusive nation,” said Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz.
“Connectivity is no longer a privilege—it is a lifeline and a modern-day utility that fuels individual opportunity and national economic progress. By extending mobile reach through satellite technology, we are ensuring that every Filipino, whether in bustling cities or in the most remote barangays, has access to essential communication,” Cruz added.
Starlink’s Direct to Cell service, developed by SpaceX, functions like a “cell tower in space,” allowing LTE phones to connect directly to satellites without the need for specialized equipment. The system integrates seamlessly with mobile networks, similar to standard roaming services.
Globally, Starlink’s DTC service already supports more than 12 million customers across 22 countries on six continents and has played a critical role during emergencies by delivering millions of SMS messages and wireless emergency alerts when terrestrial networks were down.
With Globe as its local partner, Starlink Direct to Cell is expected to enhance connectivity for Filipino households, businesses, and communities, reinforcing Globe’s vision of a more connected and resilient Philippines regardless of location or circumstance./PN
