Smart tests satellite service, eyes 2027 launch

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), the wireless arm of PLDT Inc., is gearing up for a commercial launch of its Direct-to-Device satellite service next year, following successful trials in hard-to-reach areas.

The Pangilinan-led firm said Wednesday that the test took place in the remote barangay of Marambong in Pandan, Catanduanes, successfully sending text messages between phones in the province and Metro Manila, as well as between phones within Catanduanes itself.

The teams were also able to access Smart’s website, demonstrating the service’s light data capabilities, which are expected to evolve toward full mobile data in the future.

“This year, we are also pushing for extensive tests across more areas and diverse use cases, including maritime routes, as we gear up for a commercial launch next year,” Smart  First Vice President Lloyd R. Manaloto said.

The tests were carried out in partnership with Lynk Global, following the signing of a Master Services Agreement last October. 

“Once commercially available, Smart's direct-to-device service, enabled by Lynk’s fully deployed satellites, will enable us to respond quickly in emergency situations, ensuring affected Filipinos remain connected via satellite despite adverse conditions,” said Radames Zalameda, Head of the Network Strategy and Transformation Office at Smart.

To sustain the effort, PLDT’s Chief Operating Officer, Menardo G. Jimenez, said the company will continue to focus on connecting last-mile communities and expanding digital access. 

“With 97 percent of Filipinos already covered by our network, it is important that we evaluate our satellite partners on both technology and cost efficiency,” Jimenez said.

Catanduanes, located more than 360 kilometers southeast of Manila, has long posed challenges for network rollout due to its rugged terrain.

Recent typhoons Tino and Uwan further disrupted power and telecom infrastructure, leaving residents without service for extended periods.