The National Telecommunications Commission approved SpaceX’s Starlink Internet Services Philippines Inc’s registration on Friday, allowing it to begin offering internet services in the country.
Starlink, a low-earth orbit satellite constructed by billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX, will offer broadband technology to even the most remote regions.
The NTC stated in a statement that it had accepted Starlink’s registration as a value-added service (VAS) provider, allowing the company to directly access satellite systems as well as develop and manage broadband facilities to deliver internet services.
“The NTC is committed to assisting in the timely and professional roll-out of Starlink’s internet access services,” stated NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba.
“The NTC’s quick processing of Starlink’s VAS provider registration was intended to speed up the service’s instant roll-out,” the NTC explained.
Starlink will use modern low-orbit satellites to provide low-latency satellite internet service with download speeds ranging from 100 to 200 Mbps, according to the company.
President Rodrigo Duterte approved the modified Public Service Act (PSA), which allowed foreign investors to operate 100% of enterprises in specific sectors like as telecommunications. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez had stated that the government will support the company in the permitting process.
The intention, according to Lopez, was for Starlink to begin operations before President Rodrigo Duterte’s tenure ends on June 30.
Meanwhile, SpaceX commended the regulator for moving quickly on the VAS license, which was approved once all requirements were met, according to the company’s legal counsel, Bien Marquez of Quisumbing Torres law firm.
“We’d want to express our gratitude to the NTC for issuing Starlink’s VAS license 30 minutes after we submitted our complete application,” Marquez stated.
“This demonstrates the government’s commitment to meeting our countrymen’s connectivity demands in unserved and underserved areas. This would also help us plan for natural catastrophes and other calamities “Marquez continued.
The Philippines will become the first country in Southeast Asia to offer Starlink services when the VAS is approved, according to the NTC. Japan is also in talks with SpaceX about launching the service.
According to the NTC, Starlink will cover villages in urban and suburban areas, as well as rural towns that are now unserved or underserved.