PHILIPPINES, APRIL 4, 2011 – ABS-CBN announced today that it is ready to launch five new premium channels on free-to-air TV via Digital Television (DTV), which uses digital signals for broadcast. The channels include two channels for kids, a youth channel, a channel for dads and a channel for moms.
DTV occupies lesser space in the frequency so that a single TV station can broadcast on more than one channel, giving viewers more programs options. It also produces better picture and sound compared to the prevailing analog system, close to watching a movie on DVD.
According to Miguel Mercado (pictured), ABS-CBN DTV Head of Marketing, viewers need not wait long because ABS-CBN is ready to launch DTV operations within the year. He said the company is just waiting for the final go-signal from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
“With Philippine broadcasting companies going digital, the viewing public will be able to enjoy digital quality viewing in any TV as DTV addresses the issues of poor reception, grainy pictures and choppy audio,” says Mercado.
DTV requires a Digibox, which will be available for purchase soon, connected to the television. Viewers will be able to enjoy the five new channels for free, in addition to all existing channels broadcasting in digital. By time ABS-CBN DTV is launched, this list will include Channel 2, Studio 23, GEM TV and NBN.
ABS-CBN expects other broadcasters to follow suit since the NTC has directed the local television industry to make a complete transition to digital by 2015. NTC’s mandate will certainly benefit the general public as it puts the Philippines at par with the international standard. DTV is the system followed in the U.S., Japan, Australia, South Korea and most of Europe.
ABS-CBN has been preparing for the switchover since 2007. Recently, the network conducted DTV trials in more than 1,000 households all over the Philippines, receiving very postitive responses.
