Integrated telco network PLDT Inc. (PLDT)’s wireless arm Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) and partner Lynk Global have completed new field tests of their direct-to-device (D2D) satellite service in Ilocos Norte, showing how ordinary smartphones can stay connected in hard-to-reach areas.
The tests were conducted in the coastal towns of Burgos, Bangui, and Pagudpud, locations facing the West Philippine Sea that still have pockets of weak or no mobile signal. The latest round expands earlier pilot runs in Catanduanes and highlights the potential of satellite-to-phone connectivity to support public safety and disaster response.
Engineers from Smart and Lynk exchanged text messages between devices in Ilocos Norte and Metro Manila using satellite links. They also accessed key websites, including Smart, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and PAGASA, showing that basic data services can work even without traditional cell towers.
Officials from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), including Region I Director Glenn Mercado, observed the field tests.
PLDT said the results reinforce earlier trials in Barangay Marambong in Pandan, Catanduanes, a remote coastal village where terrain and distance make network rollout difficult.
“Connecting the unconnected has always been at the heart of our mission,” said Menardo Jimenez, COO and head of Network, PLDT. “The Philippines is an archipelago, and it can be challenging to reach many communities, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, with traditional towers.”
“Direct-to-device satellite technology gives PLDT and Smart a way to overcome geographic barriers,” he said. “This is about delivering real results for communities and moving closer to reliable connectivity for every Filipino.”
Smart said the service is designed to complement its nationwide network, especially during disasters when cell sites may be down. Satellite links can provide backup communication for emergency alerts, coordination, and basic internet access.
“As with any emerging technology, there are areas that still need refinement. But given these early results, we are hopeful it can help extend connectivity to underserved communities,” Mercado said.
Lynk CEO Ramu Potarazu said the Philippines could be among the first countries to scale satellite-to-phone services for public use, citing its geography as an ideal testing ground.