Globe turns to satellite-to-phone service after Mindanao quake

Globe Telecom has activated satellite-to-mobile connectivity in parts of Mindanao following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake, allowing customers to send messages even as some terrestrial networks remain disrupted.

The deployment in South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani marks the company’s first use of Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology for disaster response in the Philippines.

More than 700,000 Globe and TM subscribers in affected areas are expected to benefit from the service, which will be offered free for up to 30 days.

The technology allows customers with existing Globe SIM cards and LTE-enabled phones to access messaging services, including WhatsApp and SMS, without requiring additional equipment.

The earthquake disrupted telecommunications services across about 30 municipalities as commercial power outages affected network facilities.

Globe said it is working with local governments and electric cooperatives to restore regular services in the hardest-hit areas.

—Edited by Miguel R. Camus 

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