Smart, Lynk achieve first successful direct-to-device satellite data test in Catanduanes

• Smart and Lynk have successfully tested Direct-to-Device satellite service in the island of Catanduanes, showing the tech’s potential in providing mobile services even in areas where cell services are unavailable. (Contributed Photo)

By TechWatch PH Staff

Smart Communication and satellite technology firm Lynk Global have successfully completed the country’s first direct-to-device satellite data test, marking a key milestone in bringing mobile connectivity to hard-to-reach areas with no traditional cell coverage.

The pilot test was conducted in Barangay Marambong in the municipality of Pandan, Catanduanes, where Smart engineers and Lynk’s technical team were able to transmit text messages via satellite between mobile phones in Catanduanes and Metro Manila, as well as between two devices within the island province. The teams also accessed Smart’s website during the test, demonstrating the technology’s initial light data capability.

The successful trial highlights the potential of direct-to-device satellite services to provide basic mobile connectivity in areas where building conventional telecom infrastructure is challenging or not immediately feasible.

“Our investments in technologies that strengthen and expand our network all reflect our core mission to connect last-mile communities, empower them to participate in the digital economy and ensure that no Filipino is left behind,” said Menardo Jimenez, chief operating officer of PLDT.

Jimenez noted that while Smart’s cellular network already covers 97 percent of the population, satellite solutions are being evaluated based on both technical capability and cost efficiency. He said the partnership with Lynk Global meets both requirements.

The Catanduanes test follows the signing of a Master Services Agreement between Smart and Lynk Global in October last year, formalizing their collaboration on direct-to-device satellite services in the Philippines.

Catanduanes, located more than 360 kilometers southeast of Manila, has long faced connectivity gaps due to its rugged terrain and vulnerability to extreme weather.

The province was recently hit by typhoons Tino and Uwan, which damaged power and telecommunications infrastructure and left communities without service for extended periods.

“This year, we are also pushing for extensive tests across more areas and diverse use cases, including maritime routes, as we gear up for a commercial launch next year,” said Lloyd Manaloto, first vice president at Smart.

According to Radames Zalameda, head of Smart’s Network Strategy and Transformation Office, the companies will continue testing as Lynk’s satellite constellation expands and its technology matures.

“Smart and Lynk will continue to conduct these tests as Lynk’s technology matures, more Lynk satellites are deployed, and service availability significantly improves,” said Radames Zalameda, Head of the Network Strategy and Transformation Office at Smart.

“Once commercially available, Smart’s direct-to-device service, enabled by Lynk’s fully deployed satellites, will enable us to respond quickly in emergency situations, ensuring affected Filipinos remain connected via satellite despite adverse conditions,” Zalameda added.

Smart’s satellite initiative forms part of the broader PLDT Group strategy to deploy next-generation technologies that strengthen national connectivity and resilience.

The company said the effort supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, while contributing to the country’s digital transformation and disaster preparedness agenda.