Globe and Starlink Launch Direct-to-Cell Satellite Service in the Philippines

Globe Telecom has officially partnered with Starlink to bring Direct to Cell (DTC) satellite service to the Philippines, making it the first telco in Southeast Asia to offer this breakthrough technology. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was present today at The Globe Tower in Taguig City to witness the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

Starting this year, Filipinos using standard LTE smartphones will be able to access essential mobile services such as voice calls, text messaging, messaging apps, and even video, anywhere with a clear view of the sky. No special hardware or apps are required. Starlink’s satellites will essentially act as “cell towers in space,” beaming signals directly to mobile phones and seamlessly connecting through its network of over 650 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

The biggest impact is expected in hard-to-reach areas across the country’s more than 7,600 islands. Globe says the service will help cover the remaining 4% of the population, or around 4.8 million people, who currently lack terrestrial network coverage. This includes Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) as well as maritime zones. The service is also positioned as a key tool for disaster resilience, helping keep first responders and communities connected when typhoons and other calamities disrupt ground-based networks. It also enables continued access to e-government services and supports business continuity in remote locations.

Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz highlighted the significance of the partnership, saying, “This partnership with Starlink marks a historic step in our mission to build a digitally inclusive nation. Connectivity is no longer a privilege; it is a lifeline and a modern-day utility that fuels individual opportunity and national economic progress.” The statement underscores the importance of addressing connectivity gaps in an archipelagic country where signal dead zones remain a challenge.

Starlink’s Direct to Cell service has already been deployed globally, delivering millions of SMS messages and emergency alerts during critical situations. With Globe as its local partner, the service is expected to provide reliable backup coverage that works similarly to roaming. The rollout is set to begin this year, although pricing and full deployment timelines have yet to be announced.

President Marcos’ presence at the signing highlights the initiative’s role in advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda. For communities in remote areas or those at sea, this development could prove to be a game-changer. More demonstrations and details are expected as the rollout progresses.