THE PHILIPPINES, JUNE 25, 2012: Philippine broadcast network GMA Network, Inc. added two originating stations middle of this year which will extend its nationwide reach to Ilocos and Bicol region.
First of the two is GMA Ilocos, which will go on air on June 18. GMA Ilocos will be seen via Channel 5 in Ilocos Norte and via Channel 48 in Ilocos Sur and parts of Abra, servicing an estimated total of 208,110 households.
The Kapuso Network will also widen its reach in the Bicol region. GMA Naga is currently being seen via Channel 7 but beginning August, GMA Bicol will be seen in other areas of Legazpi, Albay, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon via GMA TV Channel 12, reaching out to an estimated total of 520,178 households.
GMA Network chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon believes that the competitive local programming of GMA Ilocos and GMA Bicol spearheaded by its local newscasts Balitang Ilokano and Balitang Bikolano will respond to regional viewers’ need for credible news and information. “The Network is set on capturing the interest of our viewers from the different parts of the country by offering them programs that speak their native dialect. Through these programs, we are confident that we will be able to effectively reach more viewers and enable them to experience the Kapuso brand of Serbisyong Totoo.”
GMA Network president and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., meanwhile, shares that the Network’s Ilocos and Bicol stations will be equipped with Program production as well as microwave and satellite facilities. “Both of these stations are equipped with active news gathering systems capable of delivering live news coverage within the originating or neighboring provinces which can be aired locally or nationwide.”
