Smart, Lynk Global partner to bring satellite-powered mobile connectivity to remote areas

• Smart is teaming up with Lynk Global to make mobile communications possible even in areas without signal. L-R: Ralph Christian Cabello, Lynk Global Technical Account Manager – APAC; James Alderdice, Lynk Global Vice President for Asia Pacific; Menardo G. Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network; and Lloyd R. Manaloto, First Vice President at Smart.

By TechWatch PH

Smart Communications, Inc. has partnered with satellite firm Lynk Global to extend mobile coverage across the Philippines—starting with text messaging services that work even in areas without cell signal.

The collaboration will utilize Lynk’s “Direct-to-Device” (D2D) satellite network, which connects directly to regular mobile phones. The initial rollout will allow users to send and receive SMS messages and access select mobile applications, such as WhatsApp, even when they are outside traditional network coverage.

“This isn’t a simple technology play for us,” said Menardo G. Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network. “We think this will transform lives.”

“We’re trying to be there for all Filipinos,” he continued. “Whether they’re talking to family abroad, or standing on a rooftop during a flood, requesting for assistance. This partnership represents the very core of our purpose as a telco: to improve the lives of Filipinos no matter where they are across the Philippines.”

According to Smart, the initial phase will focus on basic text messaging and mobile app access over LTE, particularly in coastal and mountainous barangays and key maritime routes. The setup will also support emergency communications during typhoons, earthquakes, and other disasters.

“To make this happen, Smart and Lynk will run lab tests, set up roaming connections and conduct field trials before a phased rollout,” explained Radames Zalameda, Head of the Network Strategy and Transformation Office at Smart. “We will begin by linking our core systems and move toward live field testing, using Smart’s spectrum to reach farther areas and prioritizing coastal and mountain barangays and key maritime routes while ensuring that connections are secure, reliable and stable.”

“We are more than excited to work with Smart to deliver reliable satellite connectivity directly to mobile phones in the Philippines,” said James Alderdice, Lynk Global Vice President for Asia Pacific. “Lynk’s technology is designed to extend mobile coverage everywhere, supporting Smart’s mission to keep communities connected, even when disasters strike.”

Through the partnership, Smart aims to build a disaster-resilient layer within its national mobile network—ensuring that communities remain connected even when traditional infrastructure is disrupted.

This move aligns with PLDT Group’s broader goal of supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. It also advances the country’s digital agenda by enhancing connectivity, safety, and disaster resilience for all Filipinos.