Ilocos norte: Telecommunications company PLDT-Smart and Lynk Global completed a field test of their direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications service in Burgos, Bangui, and Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte.
According to Philippines News Agency, these areas face the West Philippine Sea and are known for pockets of limited terrestrial mobile coverage. In a statement on Monday, PLDT-Smart highlighted the potential of this technology to provide critical connectivity to remote areas and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) across the Philippines.
During the field test, engineers from PLDT-Smart and Lynk exchanged text messages between smartphones located in Ilocos Norte and Metro Manila. They also accessed key public information platforms, including websites of Smart, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
The D2D technology serves as a complementary layer to PLDT-Smart's nationwide mobile network, especially valuable during natural disasters when terrestrial infrastructure is compromised. PLDT chief operating officer and network head Menardo Jimenez emphasized that this technology aids in overcoming the geographic challenges posed by the Philippines' archipelagic nature. Jimenez stated that the focus is on delivering real results for communities, aiming for reliable connectivity for every Filipino, regardless of their location.
National Telecommunications Commission Region I Director Glenn Mercado and Engr. Rolly Albiosa were observers during the field test. Mercado noted that while there are areas needing refinement, the early results are promising for extending connectivity to remote and underserved communities.
PLDT-Smart and Lynk plan to expand the scope of D2D tests across different terrains, regional, coastal communities, and maritime routes in the country. This latest test builds on earlier tests conducted in Barangay Marambong in Pandan, Catanduanes in January, following a Master Services Agreement signed between PLDT-Smart and Lynk in October 2025.
