Globe Partners with Starlink to Launch Southeast Asia’s First Direct-to-Cell Satellite Service

Globe Telecom has signed an agreement with Starlink to roll out Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity in the Philippines, making it the first mobile operator in Southeast Asia and the second in Asia to deploy the technology.

The partnership was formalized on February 9, with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. present at the signing. Globe said the service aims to expand mobile connectivity in remote and underserved areas across the country.

What Starlink Direct-to-Cell Brings to the Philippines

Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology allows standard LTE smartphones to connect directly to satellites without requiring specialized hardware. Users only need a clear view of the sky to access data, voice, and messaging services.

Globe said the system is designed to complement existing terrestrial networks, particularly in areas where traditional cell towers are difficult or impractical to deploy—an ongoing challenge in an archipelagic country with more than 7,600 islands.

Expanding Coverage in Remote and Disaster-Prone Areas

The service leverages Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite constellation, which currently consists of more than 650 satellites. Globe said this will help address connectivity gaps in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, while also strengthening communication reliability during disasters.

Satellite-based connectivity is expected to support emergency response efforts by enabling communication when ground-based infrastructure is damaged or unavailable due to typhoons, earthquakes, or other natural disasters.

Globe Positions DTC as Part of Digital Inclusion Push

Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz said the partnership aligns with the company’s long-term goal of expanding digital inclusion nationwide.

“By extending mobile reach through satellite technology, we are ensuring that more Filipinos have access to essential communication services, regardless of location,” Cruz said.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has also previously identified satellite connectivity as a key component in improving nationwide digital access.

How the Technology Works

Developed by SpaceX, Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service functions as a “cell tower in space,” integrating with existing mobile networks and enabling connectivity similar to global roaming. The technology has already been used in other markets to support emergency communications when terrestrial networks fail.

With Globe as its Philippine partner, Starlink aims to bring the service to consumers, businesses, and public-sector users, although Globe has yet to announce a commercial rollout timeline or pricing details.

A Regional First for Southeast Asia

The agreement positions the Philippines as an early adopter of Direct-to-Cell satellite technology in Southeast Asia. Globe said the partnership reflects its broader strategy to improve network resilience and expand coverage beyond traditional infrastructure limits.

Further details on deployment phases, supported services, and commercial availability are expected to be announced at a later date.