President Marcos of the Philippines has announced his intention to partner with satellite internet constellation Starlink, operated by American aerospace company SpaceX, to address the issue of slow internet connection in the country. During his visit to SpaceX facilities in Los Angeles, President Marcos expressed confidence that the connections he established during his trip to the US would lead to significant improvements in the country’s internet speed.
The President highlighted the Philippines’ suitability for satellite broadband, given its vast archipelago of 7,000 islands. He expressed optimism that satellite broadband services like Starlink would greatly enhance broadband connectivity and productivity in the country. President Marcos also underscored the importance of adopting appropriate technology to address the challenges brought about by the era of digitalization.
To ensure the success of the project, President Marcos instructed the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan Uy to oversee its implementation. Starlink’s satellite internet technology is especially advantageous for connecting hard-to-reach areas such as rural communities and island provinces and barangays, as it provides broad coverage without the need for extensive infrastructure.
By partnering with Starlink, the Philippines aims to address the issue of slow internet connection and bring reliable and fast internet speeds to its citizens. This move aligns with the country’s vision of harnessing new technologies to improve productivity and find solutions to the challenges of the digital era. Founded by Elon Musk, SpaceX and its Starlink constellation are at the forefront of satellite internet technology. The partnership between President Marcos and Starlink holds great potential for transforming internet connectivity in the Philippines and providing greater opportunities for the Filipino people.