THE National Telecommunications Commission has authorized Globe Telecom to commercially launch the Philippines’ first satellite-to-mobile service in partnership with Starlink. The ‘cell tower in space’ technology provides continuous SMS, light data, and voice/video calling when outside the reach of traditional cell sites.
Photograph courtesy of Starlink
Globe Telecom has secured regulatory approval to launch the country’s first satellite-to-mobile service, allowing customers to stay connected even in remote areas or during disasters when regular cell towers are down.
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has authorized Globe to commercially offer Starlink’s satellite-to-mobile service nationwide.
The technology enables compatible smartphones to connect directly to Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites, allowing users to make voice and video calls, send SMS, and use messaging apps even outside Globe’s traditional cellular coverage.
“This new satellite-to-mobile technology enhances digital inclusion and accessibility,” said Globe president and CEO Carl Cruz.
Reach beyond traditional towers
“Given the NTC’s approval for commercial launch, Globe can now extend its reach beyond traditional towers, ensuring that even in the most remote or disaster-stricken areas, Filipinos remain connected. This milestone reinforces our commitment to uplift lives, support businesses and keep the nation connected.”
The NTC, in an approval signed by Commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez, said the permit supports the government’s goal to “advance inclusive digital transformation and support the NTC’s mandate to bridge the digital divide for communities across the country.”
Instead of relying solely on ground-based cell towers, the service uses Starlink’s satellite network, effectively turning satellites into “cell towers in space” that can provide coverage in places where mobile signals are weak or unavailable.
Connectivity challenge
The rollout is expected to help address one of the country’s biggest connectivity challenges. With more than 7,000 islands and frequent typhoons, earthquakes, and other disasters, many communities still lose communications when terrestrial networks are damaged or unavailable.
With the service, Globe subscribers can send SMS and use messaging, navigation, voice, and video calling apps in areas without Globe’s regular mobile signal, as long as they have a compatible device and a clear view of the sky.
The service requires an active Globe SIM enrolled in a Globe Starlink promo, which starts at P99 for Globe Prepaid and TM subscribers.
No additional cost
It will be offered at no additional cost to Globe Platinum and Postpaid subscribers with Plan P1,499 and above. Globe said supported devices vary by manufacturer, model, and software version, while iPhones are not yet compatible.
Some Android devices may require data roaming to be turned on to connect to the satellite network, although Globe said users will not be charged roaming fees while using the service in the Philippines.
Globe has already tested the technology during disaster response operations following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that affected South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani.
The company said the deployment restored emergency communications in the hardest-hit communities and helped more than 150,000 customers stay connected.
