A consumer advocacy group urged the national government to support and encourage more investments in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity as part of the efforts to close the digital divide in the country while boosting disaster resilience and economic growth.

Lawyer Tim Abejo, co-convenor of CitizenWatch Philippines, said LEO satellite connectivity is specifically helpful in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas where wired networks cannot easily reach.

LEO satellites orbit much closer to the Earth than conventional satellites, allowing faster and more reliable connections. Hundreds of small satellites move around the planet and pass signals directly to users on the ground.

If one's phone or gadget has LTE (long-term evolution) capability, which most Filipinos already have, it can connect even without a nearby cell tower.

“With connectivity to the internet, these isolated areas now have a chance to prosper. Learning can be augmented with online resources, new ideas from the internet can improve productivity, create new business opportunities, upskill people for better employment opportunities including virtual ones, and potentially attract tourists to boost the local economy,” said Abejo.

He emphasized that the internet will also open up new opportunities for residents and businesses as people do not need to leave their towns to make a livelihood or generate income.

“New businesses will sprout, residents learning and taking on virtual jobs, tourists coming in, the shifting of the economy from pure agriculture to include tourism and services,” he added.

From a policy perspective, Abejo said the approach aligns with existing government priorities as universal connectivity has long been part of national policy through the National Broadband Plan and the Philippine Development Plan.

He said satellite technology, especially LEO systems, supports the goal of reaching geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

“What’s needed now is stronger alignment between policy and investment,” he said

For consumers, Abejo stressed that the economic benefits are obvious, “Connectivity is an essential utility. When people in remote communities get internet access, they gain opportunities to study online, work remotely, start small businesses, and access digital marketplaces. This will directly boost household income and drive local economies,” he said.

Abejo highlighted the recently announced partnership between Globe Telecom and Starlink as an example of how LEO satellites can enhance existing mobile networks.

He emphasized that this collaboration demonstrates the viability of satellite technology and its ability to integrate seamlessly with current infrastructure, enabling expanded nationwide coverage.

According to Abejo, it represents an innovative approach towards inclusive connectivity, strengthening disaster resilience, and stimulating economic growth.

“The impact of this innovative partnership is significant. With greater internet access, residents and businesses will discover new opportunities. People can earn a living and generate income without leaving their hometowns. This shift will encourage the emergence of new businesses, empower residents to learn and pursue virtual jobs, welcome more tourists, and transform local economies from reliance on agriculture to a blend of tourism and digital empowered services,” Abejo noted.

At the same time, Abejo underscored the importance of affordability. “The promise of this technology will only be fully realized if it is priced within reach of ordinary Filipinos. We hope this new service will be affordable, especially for families in rural and underserved areas who need connectivity the most,” he said. “Access should not be limited to those who can pay more. Connectivity must be inclusive.”

He added that wider connectivity helps reduce inequality. “Students should not be disadvantaged simply because of where they live. Internet access levels the playing field by giving them access to learning resources, government services, and information that urban areas already enjoy,” Abejo said.

Disaster resilience, he said, is another major advantage, “In a country that regularly experiences typhoons and earthquakes, ground-based networks are vulnerable. Satellite connectivity can remain operational when cell towers and fiber lines are damaged,”

“For consumers, that means staying connected to emergency alerts, rescue services, and loved ones during crises,” he added.

Abejo said investing in LEO satellite connectivity is an investment in national resilience.

“This is about protecting consumers, strengthening the economy, and making sure no Filipino is left disconnected. With the right government support, this technology can truly change lives,” he said.