#Philippines #Manila #Starlink #Globe Telecom #Direct-to-Cell

Globe Telecom Partners with Starlink for Satellite Services

In a pioneering move for Southeast Asia, Globe Telecom, the foremost mobile operator in the Philippines, has teamed up with Starlink to launch the region's first Direct-to-Cell satellite service. This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring broader digital inclusion and enhancing connectivity across the Philippines, a nation renowned for its more than 7,600 islands.

A Historical Milestone

On February 9, 2026, in a signing ceremony attended by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the partnership was solidified, marking a pivotal moment in the Philippines' communication landscape. Globe Telecom's President and CEO, Carl Cruz, noted the importance of this collaboration in addressing the connectivity challenges faced by many communities, particularly in remote areas.

Bridging the Connectivity Gap

The Direct-to-Cell service utilizes a constellation of over 650 low-Earth orbit satellites, enabling users with standard LTE mobile phones to access vital services like voice, data, and messaging without the need for any specialized devices. This innovation is especially crucial for the Philippines, where geographical barriers often isolate communities from conventional telecommunications infrastructure.

The integration of satellite technology allows connectivity even in areas where terrestrial networks are limited, ensuring no Filipino is left behind. This crucial expansion in mobile reach is not just about convenience; it is about providing essential lifelines in times of crises, such as natural disasters. In a country frequently affected by typhoons and earthquakes, uninterrupted communication can save lives.

Enhancing Disaster Resilience

Globe Telecom's partnership with Starlink also emphasizes disaster resilience. By providing continuous connectivity, the service will serve as a crucial communication tool for citizens and first responders during emergencies. The ability to send millions of SMS messages and wireless alerts when ground networks fail positions Starlink as an indispensable resource in disaster management and response.

A Vision for Digital Inclusion

Carl Cruz articulated the company's vision for a digitally inclusive nation, stating, "Today, connectivity is a lifeline, a modern-day utility that fuels opportunity and economic progress." This sentiment reflects the broader goal of not just revolutionizing communication but also creating pathways for socioeconomic development through consistent and dependable connectivity.

As Starlink's Direct-to-Cell service is embraced by Globe Telecom, it strives to empower households, businesses, and entire communities across the Philippines. This partnership exemplifies a strategic alignment with Globe's commitment to fostering a more connected and resilient digital future, contributing to a global movement aimed at achieving universal connectivity.

In summary, Globe Telecom's collaboration with Starlink is set to redefine the telecommunications landscape in Southeast Asia. With the promise of reliable and uninterrupted communication, the partnership stands as a testament to the potential of technology to transform lives, bridging divides and enabling a brighter, digitally inclusive future for millions of Filipinos.