President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday welcomed the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Globe Telecom and Starlink, calling it a major step toward a more connected, inclusive, and disaster-resilient Philippines.
Speaking at the Globe–Starlink MOA ceremonial signing held at The Globe Tower in Taguig City, President Marcos said the partnership reflects the administration’s vision of building a digital future that leaves no Filipino behind, particularly those in remote and underserved communities.
“With the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between Globe and Starlink, we take a huge step forward towards a more progressive, connected, and equitable Philippines,” President Marcos said.
“This collaboration is proof of our shared commitment to bringing connectivity to even the farthest communities in our archipelago,” the President added.
President Marcos stressed that digital inclusion has been a top priority since the very start of his administration.
“From the very beginning of this Administration, we have been very clear: The future of the Philippines must be and will be digital—and it must be inclusive,” the President said.
“We envision a country where every child can learn without limits, where every farmer can access markets beyond their barangay, where small businesses can grow beyond their neighborhoods, and where families can stay connected no matter how far apart they may be,” the President added.
However, the President noted that true progress cannot be achieved while many areas of the country remain disconnected, underscoring that digital inclusion is both a necessity and a responsibility of the government.
President Marcos said the Globe–Starlink partnership introduces new avenues for expanding mobile connectivity, particularly in areas “where traditional infrastructure remains challenging.”
“Through the launch of Direct-to-Cell or D2C service—first in Southeast Asia and second in Asia—we made satellite-powered mobile connectivity available in the Philippines,” the President said.
The D2C service allows smartphones to connect directly to Starlink’s low-orbit satellites without the need for additional hardware or special applications, enabling basic services such as messaging and data access.
President Marcos highlighted the technology’s critical role during emergencies, noting that satellite connectivity can remain operational during typhoons and other natural disasters when land-based networks are disrupted.
“Sa pamamagitan ng D2C Service, madaragdagan ang mga teknolohiyang maaaring magbigay-ginhawa sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay,” the President said.
President Marcos also reiterated the government’s broader efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure, accelerate government digitalization, innovate online learning platforms, and promote countryside development.
“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,” President Marcos said, adding that improved rural connectivity can generate jobs, attract investments, and bring essential services closer to communities.
The President, meanwhile, recognized Globe’s long-standing role in shaping the country’s digital landscape through innovation, cybersecurity initiatives, and community empowerment.
President Marcos likewise acknowledged Starlink and SpaceX for bringing advanced satellite technology to the Philippines.
The President then urged other partners and stakeholders to continue placing the Filipino people at the center of innovation.
“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,” President Marcos said.
“So, together, let us build a Bagong Pilipinas where every Filipino finds their place in this new digital world,” the President ended.
The ceremonial MOA signing is an important step in improving connectivity in the Philippines.
The partnership combines satellite and ground technologies to expand coverage to remote and disaster-prone areas, supporting inclusive connectivity for all Filipinos. | PND