A Real-World Boost for Public Education
In a move that’s both smart and generous, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) announced that all Starlink internet equipment used during the 2025 elections will be handed over to the Department of Education (DepEd).
Why? So these devices can be installed in public schools, especially in far-away areas with poor or no internet.
It’s a rare moment when government tech meant for elections becomes a tool for learning and opportunity.
What is Starlink and Why Does It Matter?
Starlink, by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is a special kind of internet. Instead of using wires or cell towers, it uses satellites in space. This makes it perfect for islands, mountains, and other hard-to-reach places in the Philippines.
COMELEC used Starlink to send results quickly during the 2025 midterm elections. Now that the election is over, they’ve decided to pass that technology on to DepEd.
DepEd and COMELEC Working Together
COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia shared the plan during a press briefing on May 15, 2025. He said that in partnership with iOne Resources, Inc., COMELEC would donate all the used Starlink units directly to DepEd.
This is not just a technical decision — it’s a message of thanks to teachers, many of whom help run elections and work under tough conditions.
Now, those same teachers — and their students — will benefit from faster, more reliable internet in their schools.
Why This Matters for Students and Teachers
The internet is no longer just a “nice-to-have” in schools. It’s essential. And sadly, many public schools still struggle with slow or no internet access.
This donation can change that. Here’s how:
🏫 1. Internet Where It’s Needed Most
Schools in the mountains or far islands can finally go online — even if phone signals are weak.
🧠2. Better Learning
With fast internet, students can join online classes, watch educational videos, do research, and access learning platforms.
👩‍🏫 3. Help for Teachers
Teachers can download lessons, join training sessions, and use more interactive tools in their classrooms.
📨 4. Stronger Communication
Schools can more easily connect with DepEd, report problems, or get support when needed.
A Look at the Bigger Picture
This donation isn’t just about hardware. It’s about opportunity.
A school with no internet might miss out on modern teaching. Students may fall behind. Teachers might feel unsupported.
But with Starlink in place, things start to change.
One device could mean one whole school finally getting connected to the world. That’s powerful.
FAQs: What You Might Be Wondering
Who decides which schools get Starlink?
DepEd will assess and prioritize schools in rural or underserved areas.
Will teachers know how to use the technology?
Yes. DepEd plans to provide training and technical support.
Is this free for schools?
The equipment is donated, but DepEd may handle monthly service costs for continued internet use.
When will installation start?
No official timeline yet, but plans are being coordinated between COMELEC, DepEd, and iOne Resources.
Turning Election Tech into Education Tools
Let’s give credit where it’s due. This isn’t just recycling technology — it’s rethinking how government resources can make a bigger impact.
COMELEC could have packed up those Starlink units until the next election. But instead, they saw a chance to help students and teachers.
And DepEd? They’re getting tools that can change how learning happens in places that need it the most.
If more agencies thought like this, imagine how much farther public services could go — and how many more lives they could improve.
