President Bongbong Marcos expressed support for the rollout of Starlink’s Direct to Cell satellite service for mobile phones, framing the initiative as a critical step in strengthening national connectivity when terrestrial networks are disrupted.
Marcos said the technology is useful in situations where cell towers fail and communications go silent, noting its role in keeping communities, emergency responders, and government services connected. He described the development as “a huge step forward towards a more progressive, connected, and equitable Philippines,” adding that broader connectivity helps generate jobs, attract investments, and bring essential services closer to people, particularly in rural and isolated areas.
The service will be offered by Globe Telecom in partnership with Starling. Globe said it will be the first provider in Southeast Asia and the second in Asia to deploy Starlink’s Direct to Cell technology.
Direct to Cell allows standard LTE phones to connect directly to Starlink satellites for voice, messaging, and essential data services in areas without terrestrial coverage. Phones do not require specialized hardware and only need a clear line of sight to the sky to establish a connection.
Globe said the service is designed to complement existing cellular networks and add resiliency during disasters and extreme weather events. In previous deployments, the technology has helped sustain SMS messaging and wireless emergency alerts when ground based networks were unavailable.
Starlink’s Direct to Cell system operates through its low Earth orbit satellite constellation, which includes more than 650 satellites. Globe said the setup is intended to support connectivity in remote islands, rural communities, and maritime regions across the country.
“This partnership with Starlink marks a historic step in our mission to build a digital-inclusive nation,” said Carl Cruz, Globe president and CEO. “Connectivity is no longer a privilege — it is a lifeline and a modern-day utility that fuels individual opportunity and national economic progress.”
Damien Innes, Starlink senior partnerships manager, said, “Connectivity is a basic service for everybody. It should be a basic human right. We want to provide, make sure that the Philippines has this connectivity, this infrastructure, so that every Filipino can stay connected wherever they are and whenever they need it.”
Starlink began operating in the Philippines in February 2023, providing satellite internet to locations beyond the reach of fiber and conventional cellular services. The Direct to Cell rollout expands that presence by enabling direct phone connectivity without relying on fixed satellite terminals.
Globe said it has not yet announced the service’s launch date or pricing.
