Smart, Lynk expand satellite-to-phone trials to Batangas. August 20, 2026 | 12:03 am SMART COMMUNICATIONS, Inc. has expanded its direct-to-device satellite service trials with US-based Lynk Global, Inc. to Batangas as part of efforts to strengthen communications and disaster-response capabilities. Discover more Downloading Interactive Geographic Maps Discovering Niche Magazine Subscriptions The wireless unit of PLDT Inc. said the pilot activities had previously been conducted only in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte this year. "Reliable communication is essential in times of crisis. As disasters continue to pose challenges to communities across the country, PLDT and Smart remain committed to investing in technologies that help ensure critical information reaches people when they need it most," PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Network Head Menardo G. Jimenez, Jr. said in a media release on Wednesday. The Batangas trials focus on satellite-enabled connectivity that could provide critical communications during emergencies when terrestrial networks are unavailable. Smart said the latest trials complement the tests in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte, which examined how satellite technology could supplement existing telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in remote areas. "The continued expansion of these trials reflects the PLDT Group's commitment to explore next-generation technologies to help improve the delivery of public services and improve customer experience through reliable public safety communications as part of strengthened disaster response capabilities nationwide," it said. Lynk Global develops satellite-to-mobile-phone constellation technology designed to expand mobile coverage worldwide. Smart said last year that its partnership with Lynk Global would enable mobile communications in areas without cellular signals by connecting mobile phones directly to satellites. It planned to integrate its core systems with Lynk's satellite-to-mobile network before conducting live field tests using Smart's existing spectrum. The initiative would prioritize coastal and mountain barangays and key maritime routes while ensuring secure, reliable and stable connections, Smart said. Discover more Once Lynk's direct-to-device satellite network becomes fully operational, Smart said it expects to offer full mobile voice and data connectivity. Smart is the wireless unit of PLDT. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund's MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has a majority stake in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. Subscribing To Premium Business Outlets PLDT shares fell by P1, or 0.08%, to close at P1,190 each on Wednesday. - Ashley Erika O. Jose % buffered Powered by GliaStudios

Smart tests satellite-to-phone service for emergencies in Batangas. August 19, 2026 Smart Communications and Lynk Global have expanded tests of direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity to Batangas, examining how the technology could provide emergency communications when terrestrial mobile networks are disrupted by disasters. The latest trials follow earlier tests in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte and focused on using satellites to deliver communications directly to standard mobile phones in areas where cellular infrastructure is unavailable or temporarily knocked offline. Smart and Lynk simulated disaster scenarios involving disrupted network infrastructure and tested satellite-enabled cell broadcasts for sending emergency alerts and public safety messages directly to mobile users in affected communities. The companies are also testing two-way communications, including the ability to send SMS messages through satellites when terrestrial cell towers are unavailable because of typhoons, power outages or other disruptions. The technology could also extend coverage to rural and hard-to-reach locations, including maritime areas. D2D satellite technology is designed to connect satellites directly with existing mobile phones, potentially providing a backup communications layer without requiring users to carry dedicated satellite handsets. "Reliable communication is essential in times of crisis. As disasters continue to pose challenges to communities across the country, PLDT and Smart remain committed to investing in technologies that help ensure critical information reaches people when they need it most," said Menardo G. Jimenez Jr., PLDT chief operating officer and network head. "For us, this goes beyond technology. Our mission at PLDT is to be there for all Filipinos, whether they are talking to family abroad, or requesting for assistance from a rooftop in the middle of a calamity," he added. The Batangas trials build on Smart and Lynk's D2D tests in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte, where the companies similarly examined how satellite connectivity could complement existing telecommunications infrastructure in remote and underserved locations. - Advertisement - Relevant stories. June 19, 2026 March 3, 2026 February 24, 2026 January 20, 2026 August 11, 2025 July 22, 2025 Latest. August 20, 2026 August 19, 2026 August 18, 2026 August 17, 2026 - Advertisement -