SMART COMMUNICATIONS, Inc. has expanded its direct-to-device satellite service trials with US-based Lynk Global, Inc. to Batangas as part of efforts to strengthen communications and disaster-response capabilities.

The wireless unit of PLDT Inc. said pilot activities had previously been conducted only in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte this year.

“Reliable communication is essential in times of crisis. 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,” PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Network Head Menardo G. Jimenez, Jr. said in a media release on Wednesday.

The Batangas trials are focused on satellite-enabled connectivity that could provide critical communications during emergencies when terrestrial networks are unavailable, underscoring how satellite-to-phone systems are being tested as a backup to existing mobile infrastructure rather than a replacement for it.

Smart said the latest trials complement the tests in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte, which examined how satellite technology could supplement existing telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in remote areas.

“The continued expansion of these trials reflects the PLDT Group’s commitment to explore next-generation technologies to help improve the delivery of public services and improve customer experience through reliable public safety communications as part of strengthened disaster response capabilities nationwide,” it said.

Lynk Global develops satellite-to-mobile-phone constellation technology designed to expand mobile coverage worldwide.

Smart said last year that its partnership with Lynk Global would enable mobile communications in areas without cellular signals by connecting mobile phones directly to satellites.

It planned to integrate its core systems with Lynk’s satellite-to-mobile network before conducting live field tests using Smart’s existing spectrum.

The initiative would prioritize coastal and mountain barangays and key maritime routes while ensuring secure, reliable and stable connections, Smart said.

Once Lynk’s direct-to-device satellite network becomes fully operational, Smart said it expects to offer full mobile voice and data connectivity.

Smart is the wireless unit of PLDT.

Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund’s MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has a majority stake in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls.

PLDT shares fell by P1, or 0.08%, to close at P1,190 each on Wednesday. — Ashley Erika O. Jose