Globe partners with Starlink to bring Direct-to-Cell tech to underserved areas

Globe Telecom, in cooperation with the Philippine government, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement to bring next-generation satellite-powered connectivity to the country.

DICT, Globe, and Starlink executives with President Marcos Jr.

Globe partners with Starlink

Designed to serve underserved and hard-to-reach locations, Globe and Starlink will utilize the Direct-to-Cell (DTC) technology, marking the Philippines as the first country in Southeast Asia to embrace next-generation satellite-powered connectivity. 

The President delivering his speech

The ceremonial signing was attended by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., sharing his excitement about this development.

He said,

Ang DTC service ay magdadagdag ng mga teknolohiyang maaaring magbigay ginhawa sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay. This administration also continues to push forward with initiatives that strengthen our digital infrastructure. Through the National Fiber Backbone, we are laying the foundation for a more stable and secure network that serves both the government and the public.

Under the Free WiFi for All program in plazas and public spaces, we are easing the burden on families, especially on students. We are also intensifying our efforts to connect geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas—communities that have waited for years, even decades, for basic connectivity. Ito po ang ating layunin: mas mabilis na internet access para sa bawat Pilipino, pantay-pantay na oportunidad, at walang sinumang Pilipino na maiiwanan o mahuhuli.

This partnership of Globe and Starlink complements our efforts to digitalize government systems, innovate learning platforms, and support countryside development. Because when connectivity reaches the countryside, it generates jobs and attracts investments. As we pursue this vision, we acknowledge our private sector partners who share this responsibility.

For nearly a century now, Globe has helped shape our digital landscape. Beyond connectivity, it has strengthened cybersecurity, fostered innovation, and empowered our communities. We also recognize Starlink and SpaceX for bringing advanced satellite technology to our shores. To the rest of our partners and stakeholders, we ask that you continue to place the Filipino people at the center of every innovation—because progress, at its core, must serve the people.

After all, we are shaping a nation where opportunity reaches every island, every barangay, and every family. What Globe and Starlink are doing today brings us closer to that goal. It shows that when the government and private sector move with purpose and shared commitment, we broaden the possibilities for a more connected Philippines.

So together, let us build a Bagong Pilipinas where every Filipino finds their place in this new digital world. Mabuhay kayong lahat. Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas. Maraming salamat.

To recap, Direct-to-Cell (DTC) technology is a breakthrough that allows ordinary smartphones to connect directly to satellites without the need for cell towers.

It uses 650 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. According to Elon Musk's Starlink, this system creates a global mesh network capable of reaching even the most geographically challenging areas of the archipelago.

For a country with over 7,600 islands—many physically impossible to reach with traditional fiber or cell towers—DTC tech is a possible game-changer. It ensures that connectivity is no longer limited by terrain, distance, or infrastructure gaps.

Goal of the partnership

• Connect rural and underserved areas that have waited decades for reliable internet.
• Provide access to government services via the eGov app, empowering citizens to transact online without traveling long distances.
• Keep families connected across islands, especially during emergencies and weather disturbances.
• Support farmers and countryside communities, enabling them to access markets, digital tools, and financial services.
• Beyond everyday use, Starlink's satellite tech can serve as a backup internet system during disasters. In times of typhoons, earthquakes, or infrastructure breakdowns, this resilient network can provide lifesaving connectivity for emergency responders and affected families.

President Marcos highlighted the importance of this partnership, stressing that connectivity is not just about convenience but about national resiliency and inclusivity.

Photo of the MOA signing

If successful, this connects urban centers to remote barangays, creating an equal opportunity in the digital world. Economically, being connected helps attract investments, generate jobs, and even support countryside development. 

When will it be implemented?

The Philippines is set to become one of only eight countries in the world to gain access to this groundbreaking technology—second in Asia and the very first in Southeast Asia.

The rollout is expected to begin by the end of this quarter, specifically by March 2026, and it promises to be "extremely affordable" compared to existing satellite services.

According to Globe, users won't need to purchase a new SIM card; as long as their phone is LTE-capable, they can connect directly.

Additional info

Once outside the range of normal cell sites, a separate Globe Starlink signal bar will appear, provided there is a clear line of sight to the sky.

This also means that Globe's reach will span the entire country, delivering near-total coverage via direct-to-cell, direct-to-device connectivity.

What do you guys think?