PHILIPPINES, JANUARY 28, 2011 – Since its launch last September, Radyo Inquirer 990 on the AM band has been fine-tuning its programming into more than just news and views. Recent station developments include morning radio dramas, and the late-night talk show, "No More Lonely Nights" with host and comedian Arnell Ignacio.
"No More Lonely Nights" features Arnell commenting on today’s happenings and issues, talking to callers and engaging them in on-air games, and playing music requests. Playing from 10pm to 1am, it is the last show on air before Radyo Inquirer signs off for the day.
On saving the best for last, Station Manager and radio veteran, Ciro Songco observes, “8:00pm to 2am has become very competitive, other stations have put their popular talents in the graveyard shift. We’d like to keep listeners glued before we sign off.”
Inquirer seeks to break more new ground with the station. “We’re already known for the news. It’s the entertainment side that we’re working on.” says Paolo Prieto, CEO and President of Inquirer Publications. This is where its infancy comes into play. “What’s nice about being new is that we can experiment. We can try things that have not been done before.”
Work on radio is not something TV celebrities are inclined to do, but Arnell embraced the challenged. “I never felt so…’I belong’.” says Arnell. While coming from a stand-up and hosting background, he is still able to apply the same tenets to doing radio. “All of these experiences require a lot of talking coming from nowhere. Virtually you’re talking to nobody. It’s very rewarding when people call, speak to you, speak their minds. It’s very intimate; you’re close, but not intrusive. In TV, they base their curiosity according to your invented image. Radio is much more sincere. Your relationship is more human with your listeners.”
It has been a hit so far in only three weeks on air. Even before Arnell goes on, callers are already asking for him. “We have high expectations from Arnell. I believe he can do it.” declares Songco.
"No More Lonely Nights" is on Mondays to Fridays on DZIQ990AM, from 10pm to 1am.
