SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday (US time) hailed President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. for successfully spearheading a groundbreaking $400M partnership between Filipino firm HTECH Orbits and American satellite operator Astranis.
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,” said Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives.
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.
