MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has marked a significant milestone in mobile connectivity with the launch of a historic mobile service that expands network access to previously unreachable areas of the archipelago. The innovation is expected to redefine how Filipinos connect, access services, and participate in the digital economy.
Recently, Globe Telecom, in partnership with Starlink, unveiled the Direct to Cell (DTC) satellite service, a breakthrough technology that allows standard mobile phones to receive voice, messaging and data services directly through satellites in low Earth orbit. The launch—witnessed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.—positions the Philippines as one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to adopt this cutting edge system.
Unlike traditional mobile networks that rely solely on terrestrial cell towers, the DTC satellite service fills coverage gaps in remote, geographically isolated, and island communities, where building physical infrastructure has historically been challenging due to terrain and distance. This landmark initiative promises to extend mobile connectivity to millions of Filipinos who previously had limited or no access to basic voice and data services.
Telecommunications companies in the country have been driving improvements in mobile network quality and coverage over recent years. DITO Telecommunity was recently recognized as the fastest mobile network in the Philippines by independent analyst Open signal, winning top honors in multiple mobile experience categories, including 5G performance.
Meanwhile, other providers such as Globe Telecom have expanded 5G coverage to nearly all major urban centers and are pushing into rural and under served areas, with mobile coverage now reaching more than 96 percent of the population.
Industry experts say these advancements have been accelerated in part by the Konektadong Pinoy Act, a recently enacted law aimed at encouraging infrastructure development and competition in the telecommunications sector, ultimately helping bridge the digital divide.
With mobile connectivity increasingly seen as essential for education, economic opportunities, health services, and government access, the Philippines’ latest achievements reflect a major step forward in inclusive digital transformation and regional competitiveness.
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