Globe Telecom has teamed up with Starlink to roll out Direct-to-Cell satellite service in the Philippines.
Direct-to-Cell lets LTE smartphones connect directly to Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites. Unlike traditional mobile networks, it does not rely on cell towers or extra hardware. This means people in far‑flung areas can send messages and access basic data services even without conventional infrastructure.
The service also adds resilience during disasters. When ground networks go down, satellite connectivity ensures communication lines stay open.
Globe and Starlink’s collaboration is expected to boost countryside development. Reliable connectivity can attract investments, create jobs, and improve access to education and public services in rural communities.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was at the launch, saying digital inclusion should be treated as a right, not a privilege. He added that the initiative aligns with the vision of building a “Bagong Pilipinas,” where technology supports equitable progress.
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Recently, Smart has teamed up with Lynk Global to pilot a similar Direct-to-Device satellite service in Catanduanes, Bicol. In the trial, Smart and Lynk successfully sent text messages via satellite between Catanduanes and Metro Manila, as well as within the island.
