Philippines Pioneers Starlink Direct-to-Cell Service in Southeast Asia

Jun 30, 2026

63 min

Jun 30, 2026 19:31

Philippines becomes first in Southeast Asia to launch Starlink Direct-to-Cell service

## Landmark Launch in the Philippines

The Philippines has become the first Southeast Asian nation to introduce Starlink's Direct-to-Cell service. This initiative, in collaboration with Globe Telecom, marks a significant step in expanding mobile connectivity across the country.

## Nationwide Coverage

The service connects smartphones directly to Starlink's network of over 650 low-Earth orbit satellites. This allows users to access various communication services, including SMS, voice and video calls, and mobile data, without relying on traditional cell towers.

## Addressing Connectivity Challenges

The National Telecommunications Commission approved Globe's deployment, aiming to reach the 4% of Filipinos without access to terrestrial mobile networks. This is particularly crucial for the Philippines, an archipelago frequently affected by natural disasters, which often disrupt conventional communication infrastructures.

## Tested in Emergencies

The technology proved its worth during a recent earthquake in South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani, facilitating emergency communications for over 150,000 people. Globe's CEO, Carl Cruz, emphasized the importance of this service in maintaining connectivity in remote and disaster-prone areas.

## Supporting Digital Inclusion

The satellite-to-mobile service is part of a broader effort to enhance digital inclusion and provide a reliable backup communication network during emergencies. The initiative aligns with the Philippine government's goals of advancing digital transformation and bridging the digital divide.

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