$400-M satellite program hailed
SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez expressed elation over the $400 million partnership between Filipino firm HTECH Orbits and American satellite operator Astranis.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has successfully spearheaded a groundbreaking $400M partnership between the two companies.
“The economic significance of this $400 million investment and satellite launch initiative lies not only in the immediate benefits of job creation and infrastructure development but also in the long-term potential to position the Philippines as a hub for space technology, stimulate economic growth in underserved regions, and enhance the country’s overall competitiveness on the global stage,” Romualdez said.
The partnership targets the launch of the first dedicated national satellite for the Philippines in 2024 that would deliver reliable, affordable Internet access to two million people across 5,000 communities, marking a pivotal milestone in the nation’s digital evolution.
Plans for a second satellite launch in the 2nd quarter of 2025 are already in motion, designed to bring internet services to the unserved and underserved areas of the Philippines, spanning an estimated 30,000-plus barangays.
“The forging of this game-changing agreement is a historic achievement and a testament to the visionary leadership of President Marcos and his commitment to advancing the nation’s technological capabilities,” Romualdez said.
Romualdez, along with other government officials, accompanied Pres. Marcos, Jr. at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in San Francisco, California during the presentation of a signed memorandum of understanding between the two firms and the ceremonial naming of the first satellite that would be known as “Agila.”
“This initiative is not just about technological advancement but also about empowering our people to foster inclusive development. The connectivity provided by these satellites will create jobs, catalyze economic growth, improve access to education and healthcare, and create new opportunities for Filipinos in every corner of the archipelago,” Romualdez added.
Unlike the low Earth orbit focus of other companies, Astranis’ approach features a small form factor satellite combined with proprietary technology and placed in geosynchronous orbit.
Astranis produces smaller and more powerful satellites at a fraction of the cost and they can build their satellites in 12-18 months, or about five times faster than their competitors.
