By Globe-Starlink Satellite-to-Mobile Service Approved in the Philippines
The National Telecommunications Commission has approved the commercial launch of Globe’s Starlink satellite-to-mobile service in the Philippines, giving compatible users a way to send texts and use light data in areas without regular mobile signal.
The National Telecommunications Commission has officially approved the commercial launch of Globe’s Starlink satellite-to-mobile service in the Philippines.
The approval follows the ceremonial signing of the Globe and Starlink partnership in January 2026, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. together with Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda.
With this development, Globe users with compatible devices may soon be able to connect directly to satellites when regular mobile signal is unavailable, especially in remote areas, disaster-hit communities, and places without nearby cell towers.
Connectivity Beyond Cell Towers
The Globe x Starlink service is designed to support communication in areas where traditional mobile networks may not reach.
According to Globe, the service allows users to send texts and use light data outdoors, including in remote islands, mountain areas, open waters, and other locations where regular cell sites are unavailable.
This could be especially helpful for Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas, or GIDAs, where mobile connectivity remains a challenge because of distance, terrain, and lack of infrastructure.
What Users Need
To use the Globe Starlink service, users will need an active Globe SIM, a compatible device, a Globe Starlink promo subscription, and an outdoor location with a clear view of the sky.
Globe said the service is currently available for select Android and HarmonyOS devices, while iOS support is expected to follow.
Users may also need to turn on Data Roaming while using Globe Starlink within the Philippines. Once regular mobile signal is unavailable, the device may automatically switch to Globe Starlink when conditions are met.
Globe Starlink Promos
Based on Globe’s Starlink page, prepaid users may subscribe to Globe Starlink promos such as:
Globe Starlink 99
₱99 for 30 days
Includes 2GB satellite data and 100 satellite texts to all networks
Register Promo via the Globe One app
Globe Starlink 299
₱299 for 90 days
Includes 10GB satellite data and 500 satellite texts to all networks
Register Promo via the Globe One app
Globe also lists Starlink access for selected postpaid plans, including GPlan and Platinum GPlan offers.
Globe noted that satellite data and texts can only be used when connected to Globe Starlink.
Tested During Disaster Response
Before the commercial launch, the service was tested under an NTC demo permit and proved useful during disaster response.
Following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Southern Mindanao, the Globe Starlink satellite-to-mobile service was used to provide free data and messaging services to more than 150,000 customers in affected areas.
This showed the potential of satellite-to-mobile connectivity as a backup communication option during emergencies, especially when regular mobile networks are disrupted by earthquakes, typhoons, power interruptions, damaged towers, or other disasters.
Why This Matters for Remote and Mountain Communities
For communities in mountainous and remote areas, including parts of the Cordillera, satellite-to-mobile connectivity may provide an additional layer of safety and access.
It may help residents, travelers, local responders, fisherfolk, farmers, hikers, and field workers stay connected in places where mobile signal is weak or unavailable.
However, the service is not meant to replace regular mobile data or broadband. It is intended for essential communication, such as texts, light data, navigation, emergency updates, and important messaging when regular networks cannot be reached.
Part of Digital Bayanihan
The initiative is part of the government’s continuing Digital Bayanihan efforts, which aim to strengthen digital connectivity through collaboration between the public and private sectors.
With the approval of the Globe x Starlink satellite-to-mobile service, the Philippines takes another step toward building a more connected, inclusive, and digitally empowered country, especially for communities that need connectivity the most.
Sources: DICT, Globe
