Globe Telecom, in partnership with Lynk Global, has successfully conducted the country’s first voice call using a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite directly to a standard mobile phone—marking a breakthrough in extending mobile connectivity even in the most remote areas.
The live demo took place in Bagac, Bataan, a rural municipality without terrestrial signal, and showcased a clear, stable connection despite adverse weather conditions. Using Lynk SIMs on unmodified mobile phones, the team completed mobile-originated and mobile-terminated calls, along with successful SMS registration to the GSM-based Lynk network during scheduled satellite passes.
“This revolutionary milestone enables next-wave solutions that bring connectivity even to off-grid communities, directly supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” said Gerhard Tan, Globe senior director for technology strategy and innovations.
Lynk Global, known for its “cell towers in space,” is advancing its direct-to-device (D2D) satellite service through a growing constellation of LEO satellites. “This demonstration lays the groundwork for delivering reliable coverage across remote islands, rural zones, and during natural disasters,” said Daniel Dooley, Lynk chief commercial officer.
Beyond this milestone, both companies are eyeing future enhancements, including VoLTE over satellite, to improve call clarity and network efficiency.
The successful trial strengthens Globe’s corporate mission of digital inclusion and underscores the commercial potential of satellite-based mobile service in a geographically fragmented nation like the Philippines.
