Globe Telecom, the Philippines’ leading mobile network operator, is the first to bring Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell (DTC) satellite service to the country—a remarkable regional milestone as the first in Southeast Asia and the second in Asia.
Starting this year, Filipinos will benefit from the Direct-to-Cell service, allowing users of standard LTE mobile phones to access data for messaging apps, voice, and video—as well as SMS—in areas with a clear view of the sky.
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. witnessed the launch yesterday, January 16. This historic event is expected to significantly improveh connectivity in far flung areas across the country, where terrestrial network coverage has long been a problem.
“This landmark initiative is a reflection of Globe’s commitment to invest in technologies that support the government’s goal of connecting Filipinos,” said Carl Cruz, Globe President and CEO. Using Starlink’s constellation of over 650 low-Earth orbit satellites, Globe will help address mobile coverage gaps across geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), providing access to digital government services through the eGov app reach users.
The DTC satellite service works with LTE phones, which makes it an essential technology for universal mobile connectivity during disasters, when conventional networks cannot reach users. It ensures that no Filipino is left behind, allowing efficient communication for individuals and first responders by acting as a resilient backup and complementing existing terrestrial infrastructure.
This landmark service benefits the remaining 4% of the population without terrestrial coverage, particularly in maritime communities and rural areas. It provides reliable access to mobile services and supports digital inclusion. DTC not only makes communication during emergencies possible but it also allows business continuity and strengthens national resilience.
“Connectivity is no longer a privilege—it is a lifeline and a modern-day utility that fuels opportunity and economic progress,” Cruz added. “By extending mobile reach through satellite technology, we are ensuring that every Filipino, from urban centers to the most remote barangays, has access to essential communication. This partnership with Starlink is about inclusivity, resilience, and giving every citizen the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.”
Starlink’s DTC is a satellite-to-mobile wireless service launched by SpaceX that provides connectivity in remote areas where traditional terrestrial service isn’t available. Acting like a cell tower in space, Starlink satellites connect across their network via lasers, enabling seamless integration with mobile networks similar to standard roaming. Already serving more than 12 million customers in 22 countries across six continents, DTC has been crucial during emergencies, delivering millions of SMS messages and Wireless Emergency Alerts when terrestrial networks were down.
The Globe and Starlink partnership will help Filipino households, businesses, and communities gain accessible and consistent connectivity. It is a move forward to Globe’s vision for a more connected Philippines, ensuring that every individual has access to essential communication, no matter their location or circumstance. (with PR)