Globe launches Starlink satellite-to-mobile service in the Philippines starting at PHP 99

Globe has officially launched its Starlink satellite-to-mobile service in the Philippines, allowing eligible Globe and TM customers to stay connected in areas without traditional cellular coverage. The service is now available starting at PHP 99 for Globe Prepaid and TM subscribers, while qualifying Globe Postpaid and Platinum customers can access it at no additional cost.

Why it matters: Mobile connectivity in the Philippines is still limited in many remote and geographically isolated areas. Satellite-to-mobile technology allows compatible smartphones to connect directly to satellites when terrestrial cellular networks are unavailable, providing access to essential communication and online services without requiring dedicated satellite equipment.

The details: Globe Starlink is available across multiple customer segments. Globe Platinum subscribers receive one year of free access, while Globe Postpaid customers on Plan 1499 and above receive three months of complimentary access. Globe Prepaid and TM users can subscribe to the service starting at PHP 99 beginning June 30, 2026.

The service works on supported Android and HarmonyOS smartphones equipped for satellite connectivity. Globe said users can send SMS, make app-based voice calls, use messaging platforms including Viber, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger, access navigation apps, perform digital payments through GCash, use the eGov PH app, and manage their account through GlobeOne even when they are outside the reach of conventional mobile towers.

Support for iPhone devices is expected through a future software update.

Eric Tanbauco, Globe Consumer Mobile Business Vice President, said the service is designed to extend connectivity beyond the limits of traditional mobile infrastructure.

“With Globe Starlink, connection will go further, helping every Filipino stay connected wherever life takes them. Reliable connectivity today is no longer just about convenience. It gives people confidence to move forward, pursue opportunities, and stay connected during the moments that matter most. Connectivity should not stop where towers end.”

The bigger picture: Globe has been testing satellite-to-mobile technology for several months before its commercial rollout. Earlier this year, the company conducted live pilot tests in remote parts of Rizal, Batangas, and Bataan, where participants successfully accessed messaging, app-based calling, navigation, digital payments, and government digital services despite the absence of traditional cellular coverage.

The company also formally introduced the initiative in January alongside President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., positioning satellite connectivity as part of broader efforts to improve digital inclusion and strengthen communications resilience across the country.

Unlike satellite internet terminals that require dedicated hardware, satellite-to-mobile technology allows compatible smartphones to connect directly to satellites for supported services, making emergency communication and basic connectivity more accessible for people in isolated locations.

For Filipinos: The service could benefit travelers, hikers, fishermen, disaster response teams, field workers, and residents of geographically isolated communities where mobile signals are unreliable or unavailable. It also offers an additional communication option during emergencies when terrestrial mobile infrastructure is disrupted.

While the current offering supports messaging, app-based communication, navigation, and selected digital services, broader compatibility is expected as more smartphone manufacturers add satellite connectivity support to future devices.

What’s next: Globe is expected to expand device compatibility over time, beginning with support for iOS devices in a future update. As more smartphones gain native satellite connectivity capabilities, the availability of satellite-to-mobile services may become more widespread across the Philippine market.

The Bottom Line: Globe’s commercial rollout of Starlink satellite-to-mobile service marks another step toward extending mobile connectivity beyond traditional cellular coverage. With plans starting at PHP 99 and complimentary access for eligible Postpaid and Platinum subscribers, the service aims to provide Filipinos with another way to stay connected in remote locations where conventional mobile networks are unavailable.