Provisional NTC authority for Starlink Internet Services urged

Legislators are urging the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to grant Starlink Internet Services Philippines Inc. (Starlink Philippines) a provisional authority to operate while awaiting congressional approval of its franchise.

House Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Joey Salceda and Ilocos Norte Representative Angelo Barba have each filed House Resolutions advocating for this action. They emphasized that Starlink Philippines is already an accredited Satellite Systems Provider and/or Operator (SSPO) and an authorized value-added service (VAS) provider in the country.

Salceda highlighted that although Starlink Philippines has obtained regulatory accreditations to provide internet services, provisional authority is essential for constructing and operating satellite ground stations. These ground stations are critical to improving and expanding satellite broadband services nationwide.

Salceda noted that compliance with Republic Act 3846, which governs the operation of radio transmitting and receiving stations, requires any entity to secure a congressional franchise. A provisional authority would align Starlink Philippines with the NTC's position that satellite ground stations qualify as radio stations under this law.

"The installation of these satellite ground stations is vital to enhancing internet connectivity in the Philippines using low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These satellites, orbiting at altitudes of 2,000 km or lower, enable faster internet speeds and lower latency," Salceda explained.

He further underscored the importance of robust internet infrastructure, particularly in disaster response and recovery.

"The Philippines is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, making reliable internet services crucial for emergency communication and public safety," Salceda added.

Two bills seeking to grant Starlink Philippines a franchise—House Bill 10954 and Senate Bill 2844—are currently pending. However, Congress faces time constraints, with limited sessions before the campaign period and the May 2025 elections.

Salceda argued that these constraints justify the need for provisional authority, especially since Starlink's services could significantly contribute to the elections.

"The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has procured Secure Electronic Transmission Services (SETS) for the 2025 elections, leveraging Starlink's satellite technology for data transmission in unserved and underserved areas. This demonstrates the urgent necessity for Starlink to expand its capacity," Salceda stated.

Barba echoed this sentiment, aligning the request with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.’s National Digital Connectivity Plan for 2024–2028.

"The timely installation of Starlink's satellite ground stations is crucial. Starlink's devices support naval units in Pag-Asa Island and remote towns, ensuring reliable connectivity. They also enable high-speed internet for remote court proceedings," Barba said.

Barba emphasized that Starlink has proven to be a valuable asset in addressing connectivity challenges in the Philippines.

"Given the lengthy process of securing a congressional franchise, a temporary license is urgently needed to facilitate the construction and operation of Starlink’s infrastructure," he concluded. — DVM, GMA Integrated News