Integrated telco network PLDT Inc.’s wireless arm Smart Communications Inc. and satellite provider Lynk Global have completed a pilot test of direct-to-device satellite service in Catanduanes, showing how mobile services can work in areas without cell coverage.
The test took place in Barangay Marambong in the town of Pandan, a remote coastal area facing the Philippine Sea. Using a Lynk satellite, the teams were able to send text messages between a mobile phone in Catanduanes and another phone in Metro Manila, as well as between two phones within the province. The teams also accessed Smart’s website during the test, showing that the satellite can support light data use in addition to basic messaging.
The trial was carried out by Smart’s Network Strategy and Architecture Team together with Lynk’s technical team. Smart said the results support the use of satellite technology to extend mobile services to locations where building traditional cell sites is difficult or not yet possible.
“Our investments in technologies that strengthen and expand our network all reflect our core mission to connect last-mile communities, empower them to participate in the digital economy and ensure that no Filipino is left behind,” said Menardo Jimenez, COO of PLDT. “With 97% of the population already covered by our cellular network, it is important that we evaluate our satellite partners on the basis of not just their technology but also cost effectiveness. Our partnership with Lynk Global delivers both.”
The pilot follows the signing of a Master Services Agreement between Smart and Lynk Global in October last year, which formalized their partnership and allowed both companies to move forward with technical testing in the Philippines.
“Smart and Lynk will continue to conduct these tests as Lynk’s technology matures, more Lynk satellites are deployed, and service availability significantly improves,” said Radames Zalameda, head of the Network Strategy and Transformation Office at Smart.
“This year, we are also pushing for extensive tests across more areas and diverse use cases, including maritime routes, as we gear up for a commercial launch next year,” said Lloyd Manaloto, FVP at Smart.
Catanduanes is located more than 360 kilometers southeast of Manila and has several areas that remain unserved due to its mountainous terrain and other challenges that make network rollout difficult. The island was also recently affected by Typhoons Tino and Uwan, which damaged power and telecommunications facilities and caused extended service outages.
“Once commercially available, Smart’s direct-to-device service, enabled by Lynk’s fully deployed satellites, will enable us to respond quickly in emergency situations, ensuring affected Filipinos remain connected via satellite despite adverse conditions,” Zalameda added.