Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) has announced that one-quarter of its network of over 6,000 RCBC ATM Go agents relies on Elon Musk’s Starlink internet solution.
According to the bank, the Starlink satellite internet technology has been a key factor in the nationwide expansion of RCBC ATM Go, a digital service offering access to banking functions such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, bill payments, mobile loading, and the claiming of remittances and government aid.
Through partnerships with local entrepreneurs, grassroots organisations, and government agencies, RCBC ATM Go has achieved wide coverage, reaching all 82 provinces, every major city, and most towns across the Philippines.
Starlink’s global reach, covering 99 countries and recently launched in Indonesia, has been instrumental in connecting underserved areas. President Bongbong Marcos has mentioned the government’s plan to work with Starlink to enhance internet connectivity in rural regions, following its deployment on Kalayaan Island in the West Philippine Sea in February 2024.
Lito Villanueva, Executive Vice President and Chief Innovations and Inclusion Officer at RCBC, noted the impact of Starlink on digital connectivity in the Philippines.
“Starlink is a lifeline for underserved and unbanked Filipinos. Without it, the communities we serve wouldn’t have access to the digital solutions available in urban areas.”
“Our journey towards a fully digital society must be inclusive, ensuring no one is left behind. This philosophy aligns with Elon Musk’s vision for Starlink. I hope more Filipinos will embrace this technology and the vision of a connected world,”
Lito added.
Featured image credit: Edited from Freepik
