Elon Musk’s Starlink Enters the Philippines with NTC’s approval

The Philippines welcomes a new value-added service (VAS) provider as SpaceX’s Starlink has been officially approved by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). This enables the company to “directly access satellite systems, build and operate broadband facilities to offer internet services.”

Internet users can soon enjoy 100 Mbps up to 200 Mbps download speeds using Starlink’s network of satellites.

Being that it is a low-earth orbit satellite, Starlink will be able to provide its services up to remote areas in the country. It can then fulfill its objective of addressing the connectivity needs of our countrymen in unserved and underserved areas,” as stated by Atty. Bien Marquez who stood as SpaceX’s legal counsel from Quisumbing Torres law firm.

Speedy action for fast-speed internet

Atty. Marquez also thanked the NTC for how promptly it processed their application, approving the VAS license only 30 minutes after they submitted all requirements. 

As mentioned by the NTC, the “swift processing of Starlink’s VAS provider registration was meant to expedite the service’s immediate roll-out.” NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba also mentioned that the office is “steadfast in helping ensure that roll-out of Starlink’s internet access services will be done expeditiously and professionally.”

As mentioned by Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, Starlink intends to begin its operations in the country before President Duterte’s term ends on June 30, 2022. It will be the first Southeast Asian country to have access to Starlink technology.

Source: ABS CBN News