Globe, Starlink pioneer cell-to-sat connectivity in Southeast Asia

MANILA, Philippines —  Globe Telecom Inc. on Friday announced a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink Internet Services Philippines Inc. to roll out direct-to-cell satellite connectivity. This marks the first deployment of the technology in Southeast Asia. 

Through the partnership, Globe LTE users will be able to connect directly to Starlink satellites. This expands access to text, voice, data and internet-of-things services in areas with limited or no cellular coverage. 

The service leverages Starlink’s network of more than 650 low-earth orbit satellites — the world’s largest — which functions as a “cellphone tower in space” to enable mobile connectivity even in “dead-zone” areas.

READ: Elon Musk’s Starlink PH gets boost from House

Globe president and CEO Carl Cruz and Starlink senior partnerships manager Damien Innes led the ceremonial signing on Friday at the Globe Tower in Bonifacio Global City.

Cruz said the partnership was “years in the making.” He said it is especially crucial during emergencies and natural disasters, when mobile connectivity may “spell the difference between safety and peril.” 

Also present during the signing were President Marcos, Globe chair Jaime Zobel de Ayala and Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda.

READ: First Philippine Industrial Park taps Globe for fiber link

In his speech, Mr. Marcos said the partnership would also help students to learn without interruptions. It would also help farmers access markets beyond their areas and small businesses expand their reach.

“When connectivity reaches the countryside, it generates jobs, attracts investments and brings essential services closer to the people,” he added.

Outside the Philippines, Starlink’s direct-to-cell services are available in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Peru, Ukraine and Nigeria. INQ