Marcos eyes satellite-based internet for schools

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed on Monday to provide satellite-based internet access to all public schools in the country through Starlink, describing it as a move to bridge the digital divide in education, particularly in far-flung areas.

Speaking at the national kickoff of the “Brigada Eskwela” program of the Department of Education (DepEd) at Tibagan Elementary School in San Miguel town, Bulacan, Marcos cited the government’s commitment to improving teaching conditions and learning outcomes with the use of modern technology.

“We have been shown the new Starlink, which provides internet connection, so there is Wi-Fi everywhere. We are doing that not only here, but we will do it in various schools, especially those in remote areas,” he said.

READ: Starlink units used in May polls to be donated to DepEd schools – Comelec

Faster alternative

According to him, Starlink’s simplicity and reliability make it ideal for use in rural schools, where connectivity has long been a challenge.

“The system is simple: just connect it, plug it in, and then you’ll have Wi-Fi,” he said.

Starlink is a type of internet service that operates through satellites in space, unlike traditional internet, which relies on cables or cell towers. It is especially useful for places where regular internet is slow, expensive, or unavailable.

Created by the company SpaceX, the Starlink system uses small satellites orbiting the Earth to beam internet signals directly to a dish on the ground.

The President made the remarks as he drummed up support for “Brigada Eskwela,” a nationwide volunteer program in which teachers, parents, students, community members, local businesses, and even government workers work together to help prepare public schools for the opening of classes on June 16.

According to Marcos, the government is taking advantage of new technologies like Starlink to ensure reliable internet connectivity in schools, which is essential for digital learning tools.

The President also stressed the importance of supporting teachers not only through better technology and reduced paperwork, but also through retraining and other professional development programs.

“We will support you, and this is not only through financial support, but also with retraining … so that you can teach better,” he said.

Burdensome paperwork

The President also reiterated his vow to reduce the administrative workload of public school teachers, saying they should be allowed to focus on teaching, not on burdensome paperwork.

“You became teachers to teach, not to perform bookkeeping tasks,” he said.

His remarks come amid long-standing calls from teachers’ groups for better compensation, less clerical work, and improved learning conditions in public schools.

Marcos said that Education Secretary Sonny Angara is leading efforts to ease teachers’ administrative duties, allowing them to concentrate on instruction and mentoring.

He also pledged financial support and retraining programs for teachers, calling them the “true heroes” of the nation.

“A teacher is usually losing sleep if they do not get the chance to teach,” the President said. /cb