PLDT’s wireless unit Smart Communications said that it has expanded its direct-to-device (D2D) satellite trial with Lynk Global (a.k.a. Elveo Mobile) to Batangas in southwestern Luzon.
Smart said the tests in Batangas focused on demonstrating how satellite-enabled connectivity solutions can help deliver critical communications when terrestrial networks are unavailable during emergencies.
The tests simulated disaster scenarios in areas where network infrastructure may be temporarily disrupted following a calamity, and demonstrated how Lynk’s D2D messaging can deliver emergency alerts and public safety messages directly to customers in affected communities, supporting government and emergency responders during critical situations.
“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’s COO and network head, in a statement.
The tests in Batangas follow pilot activities conducted by Smart and Lynk earlier this year in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte.
Lynk Global completed its merger with Omnispace last week, with the combined company branded as Elveo Mobile. Elveo is planning a constellation of 320 LEO satellites, and is expected to also have access to MEO and GEO constellations and ground stations owned by SES, which owned stakes in Lynk and Omnispace prior to the merger.
Smart officially signed a partnership deal with Lynk in October 2025. Smart’s rival Globe Telecom has been trialling Lynk’s D2D service since October 2024.
Globe commercially launched Starlink’s D2D satellite service across the Philippines this past June
Smart and Globe are also collaborating with D2D service provider AST Spacemobile under MoUs signed in 2021 and 2022, respectively.
