The Philippine government is enhancing its tie-up with SpaceX to improve satellite broadband services and pursue future space projects. DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque met with SpaceX officials on March 5, 2025 at Hawthorne, California to discuss plans for improving internet connectivity, promoting digital learning as well as enhancing e-government and e-commerce services.
SpaceX Starlink satellite internet service has already changed the Philippines’s access to broadband. As the pioneer country in Southeast Asia for Starlink, the Philippines now has more than 100,000 customers and 13 ground gateway stations. The partnership ensures that even rural areas in the country enjoy speedy and trustworthy internet enhancing business activities, education, government operations and resilience against natural disasters.
Since it started operations in 2023, SpaceX has rolled out 30,000 terminals which have delivered high-speed internet connectivity to communities that have no fiber networks. Besides expanding connectivity, talks also include a possible human spaceflight program that can take the first Filipino to space.
Moreover the state is making use of programs such as the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) law and the Konektadong Pinoy Act proposal to enhance high-tech investments and simplify telecommunications regulations. These moves will ensure the country keeps up with the competition in the global digital space.
