Telco giant PLDT Inc. is finding early momentum in satellite broadband through its partnership with Starlink, deploying nearly 1,000 units in the first quarter alone as telecom operators increasingly choose collaboration over direct competition in emerging connectivity markets.
The Ayala-led telecommunications giant said its upcoming satellite-to-mobile service with Elon Musk’s Starlink will depend heavily on the scale and maturity of the satellite constellation supporting the network. Globe said Starlink’s more than 10,000 low Earth orbit satellites provide an advantage in delivering reliable connectivity beyond conventional coverage areas.
They often say don’t knock it till you try it. Well, PLDT Inc. chief operating officer Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr. says he has tried satellite-to-cell services himself and he’s far from impressed.
PLDT Enterprise is stepping up efforts to connect far-flung government offices after sealing a partnership with systems integrator SMS Global Technologies, Inc. (SMSGT) to deploy satellite internet via Starlink.
Uy noted that the expanded deployment will allow Converge to handle more complex applications and services, including enterprise solutions and cloud-based platforms, ensuring the network is future-ready.