The Department of Information and Communications Technology is working closely with Starlink and local telecom providers to restore mobile and internet services in Masbate and other typhoon-hit areas within the week.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda told a press briefing that only 23 percent of cell sites and internet services have been restored in Masbate, following the onslaught of Typhoon Opong, which caused fiber cuts, downed towers, and related damage to infrastructure.
Aguda visited Masbate to lead a series of inspections and to formally turn over the Starlink satellite system to the provincial government.
Starlink is a global business controlled by Elon Musk, who is often referred to as the world’s first trillionaire.
Additionally, local telecommunications companies PLDT Inc., Smart Communications Inc., Globe Telecom, and Converge ICT Solutions have been intensifying their network restoration efforts.
“We thank Converge for being one of the first to respond. They are sending personnel on the ground. PLDT, Globe, and Smart have also mobilized, and just last night flew in additional generator sets to power critical cell sites,” Aguda said.
To hasten the restoration effort, DICT coordinated the turnover of Starlink satellite internet technology to help restore connectivity in hard-hit and remote areas.
DICT also reached out to Starlink’s Global Emergency Response Team, which promptly responded and is now mobilizing additional units to provide expanded satellite connectivity throughout the affected areas.
These joint efforts underscore the urgency of restoring digital access for Masbateños, ensuring that communication, emergency coordination, and essential services can resume as quickly as possible.
“The President’s directive is to restore services in Masbate and affected areas within the week as soon as possible,” Aguda added.
In response to the President’s order to ensure every Filipino has access to connectivity and communication, especially during disasters, the DICT Region V Masbate Provincial Office has promptly extended assistance by providing free Wi-Fi and charging stations to residents starting on September 26, 2025.
