7.8 magnitude

Globe has activated its free satellite-to-mobile connectivity service in parts of Mindanao affected by the recent magnitude 7.8 earthquake, providing emergency communication support to more than 700,000 Globe and TM subscribers in areas where terrestrial networks may have been disrupted.

Globe said the service, deployed in partnership with Starlink, is its first use of satellite-to-mobile technology for disaster response in the Philippines. The initiative covers affected areas in Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat, allowing subscribers to access essential communication services while recovery and relief operations are underway.

Under the program, Globe Prepaid and TM subscribers in covered areas will receive 1GB of mobile data and 50 SMS valid until June 17. Meanwhile, Globe Postpaid and Platinum subscribers will be provided 2GB of data and unlimited SMS valid until August 10.

The satellite-to-mobile service is available in Sarangani, as well as several municipalities and cities in South Cotabato, including Banga, Koronadal City, Lake Sebu, Norala, Polomolok, Santo Niño, Surallah, T’Boli, Tampakan, Tantangan, and Tupi.

It also covers multiple localities in Sultan Kudarat, including Bagumbayan, Tacurong City, Columbio, Esperanza, Isulan, Kalamansig, Lambayong, Lebak, Lutayan, Palimbang, President Quirino, and Sen. Ninoy Aquino.

Globe said the service allows compatible mobile devices with active Globe SIMs and at least 4G LTE to connect directly to low-earth orbit satellites through the “G Starlink” network, enabling users to send messages and access light data services even when conventional network infrastructure is unavailable.

The company advised subscribers to use the service in open areas with a clear view of the sky, noting that signal quality may be affected by terrain, dense vegetation, tall structures, or adverse weather conditions.

Some devices, according to Globe, connect via data roaming. Turning this on allows access to Globe Starlink without additional roaming fees when used within the Philippines.

The service currently supports compatible Android and Harmony devices, while support for iOS devices has yet to be introduced.

Globe said the satellite-based connectivity solution serves as a critical communication backup during disasters, power outages, and other emergencies, helping affected residents stay in touch with family members, access important information, and coordinate relief efforts.

The deployment forms part of Globe’s disaster resilience initiatives aimed at maintaining communication services in vulnerable and hard-hit communities during emergencies.