COMPILATION OF POSTS DURING THE PAST TWO YEARS: The 2008 Yearender Post

MARCH 16, 2008

The "SCIENCE" Behind the ABS-CBN Logo
If you think that ABS-CBN has no relationship in the field of science, you're WRONG!If you can see the ABS-CBN logo carefully, you can see the three colored rings: the red ring, the green ring and the blue ring, is also the color of the colored cathode-ray tubes used in colored television, as well as in the light spectrum. Well, that's Physics and Electronics...Get it?Now, you have now an idea in what is the connection between ABS-CBN Logo and Science...
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 10:59:00 AM

MARCH 13, 2008

ABS-CBN to launch Digital TV
MANILA, Philippines - ABS-CBN is preparing to bring digital TV (DTTV) broadcasting to the Philippines in the first quarter of 2008.With digital broadcasting’s superior image, improved audio quality, better reception capabilities and high-definition broadcast potential, DTTV, network officials say, is ABS-CBN’s way of “bringing global standards to Philippine broadcast.”The United Kingdom is planning on switching off all analog telecasts in October 2007, and the US will broadcast exclusively in digital starting February 2009.This digital rollout means that ABS-CBN will be broadcasting both analog and digital signals at the same time. Households that have not decided whether or not to go digital will still be able to see the regular broadcast, while digital households will be able to see cable-quality TV image and sound from the revolutionary network project, dubbed “Cable TV ng Masa.”Deo Jordan, head of the Digital Broadcast Operations for ABS-CBN Broadcast Engineering Division (BED), says tests for DTTV started late 2006 in San Fernando, Pampanga and San Miguel, Bulacan.“The sample audience in these areas received several hundred set-top boxes (STBs),” he relates. “We conducted surveys and focus group discussions with them. The tests were very informative.”Jordan explains: “The tests supplied us with data on how to better design the transmission system, including information on how many transmitters we need to install to cover Mega Manila, at what power level we need to broadcast, and what the total cost may be if we do digital broadcasting full-time. We also realized that we needed to raise awareness on how easy it is to use an STB to convert an ordinary TV to receive DTTV signals.”ABS-CBN plans to conduct test broadcasts in Metro Manila soon.
Reference: http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/entertainment/entertainment/view_article.php?article_id=87487
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 2:34:00 PM

Charo Santos-Concio: The New ABS-CBN President
Former beauty queen and actress Charo Santos-Concio has been appointed as president of ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp., taking over from interim president Eugenio Lopez III.In a disclosure, ABS-CBN said Santos-Concio is the company's fifth president. She was promoted from her executive vice president post, which she has held since 1998. ABS-CBN said that as president, Santos-Concio will lead the company's executive committee, and oversee operations of all subsidiaries.
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 2:32:00 PM

Digital Television
ABS-CBN recently applied for a digital television-terrestrial service (DTT) license to the National Telecommunications Commission. Digital Television in the Philippines will utilize the DVB-T standard utilized in most of Europe. The Dutch company Impeq Technologies is one of ABS-CBN's consultants in the digital transition. The network is planning to also supply DTV boxes in areas where signal reception of Channel 2 is weak. Areas such as Valenzuela, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite and Laguna are the potential market for the DTV set-top boxes. The Metro Manila market will receive DWWX-TV and DWAC-TV and the company's six other cable channels on the digital platform. It is unclear however if ABS-CBN or its sister channels will broadcast some of its programmes on high definition (HD) once it has digital channels.The National Telecommunications Commission will be giving television broadcast companies until December 31, 2015, to fully convert from analog to digital technology, in line with the worldwide shift towards the use of DTT in broadcasting.
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 2:26:00 PM

FEBRUARY 21, 2008

Updates to the Controversy
On December 20, 2007, Judge Charito Gonzales, Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 80 released a temporary restraining order on TV ratings surveys based on a civil case filed by ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation versus AGB Nielsen Media Research Philippines. ABS-CBN accused "a certain television network" of funding bribing operations at Bacolod to discredit the former. The Court further ordered ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation to file comment on the plea of AGB Nielsen for the alleged gathering and dissemination of television ratings data, within 5 days or until December 22. ABS-CBN filed a case to cite AGB Nielsen for contempt after it released TV ratings data despite the issuance of the TRO.On December 21, DZMM correspondent Junrie Hidalgo reported a news story entitled AGB Nielsen, umamin sa dayaan: GMA Network, tahasang itinurong nasa likod ng dayaan (AGB Nielsen admits the cheating: GMA Network fiercely accused of being responsible of the cheating) during the program Showbiz Mismo, hosted by Cristy Fermin and Jobert Sucaldito. The news story is based on an interview of AGB Nielsen's General Manager Maya Reforma regarding the alleged cheating.In response, GMA aired a TV plug condemning the alleged biased reporting and denied the accusations of ABS-CBN. They later filed a PHP15-million civil libel suit against ABS-CBN on January 3, 2008. The respondents included Hidalgo, Fermin, Sucaldito, the station manager and news manager of DZMM and hosts, writers and executive producers of TV programs Bandila, Entertainment Live and The Buzz after the same story was aired on the mentioned programs.On January 7, the Quezon City RTC junked ABS-CBN's suit against AGB Nielsen, saying the case was “prematurely filed" before the court. Judge Charito Gonzales' basis is the principle of mutuality of contracts, citing Article 1308 and 1196, New Civil Code of the Philippines. ABS-CBN plans to file a motion for reconsideration regarding the case. Also, Judge Samuel Gaerlan, QCRTC, Branch 92 issued court summons against ABS-CBN and its 15 personnel, in the January 3, 2008 P15-million damage suit by GMA NetworkOn January 17, 2008, Judge Gaerlan inhibited himself from the case, considering that he has a cousin working in the legal department of ABS-CBN. The case was later re-raffled on January 28, 2008, and the case was eventually assigned to Judge Henri Inting of Branch 95, QCRTC. Judge Inting submitted GMA's petition for a temporary restraining order for decision.On February 14, 2008, Judge Inting issued a TRO barring ABS-CBN from airing defamatory statements against GMA.
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 10:07:00 AM

Entities and Ventures
List of subsidiaries
ABS-CBN Center for Communication Arts, Inc.
ABS-CBN Distance Learning Center
ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc.
ABS-CBN Global, Inc.
ABS-CBN Integrated and Strategic Property Holdings, Inc.
ABS-CBN Interactive, Inc.
ABS-CBN International
ABS-CBN News Channel
ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc.
ABS-CBN Radio Operations
ABS-CBN Regional Network Group
ABS-CBN Talent Management & Development Center, Inc.
AMCARA Broadcasting Network, Inc.
Bayan Telecommunications, Inc.
Creative Programs, Inc.
Cinema One
E-Money Plus, Inc.
Hero
Knowledge Channel
Lifestyle Network
Meralco
Myx
Nugen Music, Inc.
Pinoy Central
Products 2 Broadcasting Network Inc.
Roadrunner Network, Inc.
Sky Films, Inc.
Star Home Video
Star Recording,Inc.
The Filipino Channel
TV Food Chefs, Inc.

Affiliates and productions
Bayan Productions, Inc.
Bicol Broadcasting System, Inc. (BBS)
Calbayog Community Broadcasting Corporation (CCBC)
Diamond Star Productions, Inc. (DSPI)
Endemol
Fairwaves Broadcasting Network, Inc. (FBN)
First United Broadcasting Corporation (FUBC)
KB Entertainment Unlimited, Inc.
Korean Broadcasting System
Masbate Community Broadcasting Corporation (MCBC)
Mindanao Institute of Technology-Radio & Television Network (MIT-RTVN)
Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation
Our Lady Foundation (OLF)
Probe Productions, Inc.
Palawan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC)
St. Jude Thaddeus Institute of Technology (SJTIT)
Sky Vision Corporation (SVC)
Sulu Tawi-Tawi Broadcasting Corporation (STBC)
Sumuroy Broadcasting Corporation (SBC)
Tagbilaran Broadcasting Corporation (TBC)
Times Broadcasting Corporation (TBC)

Divisions
ABS-CBN Foundation
ABS-CBN Global
ABS-CBN Interactive
ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs
ABS-CBN Sports
Central Library
Engineering
Entertainment
I-Post
Manila Radio Division
Radio DivisionTraffic

Media Ventures
Manila Times
Philippine Star
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 10:05:00 AM

ABS-CBN @ 55: At a Glance
Origins
The company traces its beginnings to June 12, 1946, when James Lindenberg, an American engineer established the Bolinao Electronics Corporation (BEC), which specialized in assembling transmitters. Realizing the potential of television in the country, he was the first to apply to for a license in the Congress of the Philippines to estabish a television station in 1949, which was granted a year later. By then, due to the scarcity of raw materials and import controls imposed that time, BEC was compelled to branch into radio broadcasting instead.In 1952, the late Judge Antonio "Tony" Quirino (1917-1992), brother-then of the late President Elpidio Quirino (1890-1956) who was also looking to set up a television station, bought 70% of BEC and had it renamed Alto Broadcasting System (ABS, with Alto from Antonio Quirino's wife, Aleli and his name, Tony.) Lindenberg, however, remained as part-owner and served as general manager of the station. In 1953 DZAQ-TV 3 (the "AQ" part stands for Antonio Quirino) was introduced as the country's first television channel and made its first broadcast on October 23, 1953.Formal mergerIn April 1958, Chronicle Broadcasting Network (CBN, with the name "Chronicle" coming from The Manila Chronicle), a radio network established in 1956 by sibling businessmen Eugenio Lopez, Sr. (1901-1975) and Vice-President Fernando Lopez (1904-1993), branched into television broadcasting, and bought ABS from Quirino in the same year with both signing a Memorandum of Agreement on a table napkin.The network grew, and by 1961, its stations DZAQ-TV 3 and DZXL-TV 9 could be received anywhere in the country from a number of affiliates. February 1, 1967 marked the formal merger of ABS and CBN under the name "ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation". In 1968, ABS-CBN inaugurated its broadcast center in Diliman, Quezon City that included eight sound-and-stage production studios and control rooms, a master control room, editing and technical terminal areas, as well as offices and support facilities for network television and provincial AM and FM radio.The network brought many firsts to the Philippines, including color television service (in 1966 when they displayed the Sarimanok logo, showed full-color programs such as Buhay Artista, Wild Wild West, The Nida-Nestor Show, Tawag ng Tanghalan, Cine Filipino and the 60's top rating Your Evening With Pilita ), conducted the first marathon coverage of the country's elections through Halalan '67, the first live transmission of a world news event via satellite (the moon landing in 1969) and the coverage of the collapse of the Ruby Tower in Manila via microwave transmission from a multi-cam outside broadcast van (OB Van). Also by mid-1970, ABS-CBN increased color programming to eight hours a day, and was the only TV network in color.

Martial Law era
In September 21, 1972, President Ferdinand Marcos closed down any non-state broadcast services. ABS-CBN went off the air, as its studios were taken over by networks run by presidential crony Roberto Benedicto. The ABS-CBN Broadcast Center became the home of state-run TV stations Banahaw Broadcasting Corporation (BBC Channel 2), Government Television (GTV Channel 4, which took over the frequency rights of DZXL-TV 4 of CBN) and Kanlaon Broadcasting System (KBS Channel 9). Later on, the company was seized from the Lopez family, and then ABS-CBN Chairman and President Eugenio Lopez Jr. was imprisoned. In 1980, Channel 2 together with channels 9 and 13 was moved to the newly built Broadcast City in Diliman, Quezon City.

The Star Network
When Marcos was deposed in 1986, the network was sequestered and returned to the Lopezes. The network went back on the air on September 14 the same year. By March 1987, after ranking last among the country's five TV stations in Metro Manila and suffering huge losses, ABS-CBN was re-launched as the "The Star Network: Ang Pagbabalik Ng Bituin" ("The Return of the Star"). Eugenio Lopez Jr. took the risk despite the constraints. He hired Charo Santos-Concio and Freddie Garcia, who worked with GMA Network when ABS-CBN was closed during Martial Law.Facility maintenance of the Broadcast Center was neglected and the need to upgrade was ignored for more than 13 years. Even after democracy was restored in 1986, ABS-CBN’s highest priorities were its programming and major investment in its facility continued to be deferred.By August 1987, within six months of renewed operations ABS-CBN rose from the least-watched to the most-watched television network, and has dominated the ratings since, with dominance in Mega Manila for 16 years now. The following year, the network ventured into satellite broadcasting, furthering its reach through "Bridges On The Air, Link to the Future", a project that was supposed to take off in 1973 had Martial Law not interfered.By 1990, the company had already recovered. ABS-CBN programs consistently drew large audience shares, averaging 40-50% in Metro Manila.In June 1992 was also a significant year for ABS-CBN as it went public, opening PHP15 a share, the ABS-CBN Regional Network Group was established and began producing programs for the local audience, signed a historic lease with PanAmSat and switched from taped international telecasts to live satellite feeds.ABS-CBN also got the exclusive Philippine broadcast rights for the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain, and the 1994 Miss Universe pageant held in the Philippines. In 1999, ABS-CBN solidified its grip on the top spot as the soap opera Esperanza gained average ratings of 58% of viewers in the Mega Manilla market, making it one of the most watched shows in Philippine history, followed by Pangako sa 'Yo in 2001, with average ratings of 56% in Mega Manila.

Expansion
Aside from its flagship terrestrial network ABS-CBN 2 Manila, ABS-CBN broadcasts to many predominantly Filipino enclaves in the Middle East, United States, Europe, Australia and several other countries via The Filipino Channel or TFC. The network has also diversified into film (Star Cinema - ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.), music recording (Star Records), publishing (ABS-CBN Publishing), and interactive media (ABS-CBN Interactive).The network has also introduced its second terrestrial channel, Studio 23 (UHF band) in 1996, as well as cable channels MYX (a music channel), ABS-CBN News Channel (a cable news channel), CinemaOne Global and CinenaOne (movie cable channel), the Lifestyle Network (home and lifestyle channel), Pinoy Central TV (regionally produced shows) and Hero (the country's first Tagalog-dubbed anime channel). The network's radio stations include DWRR 101.9 (FM-Manila) and DZMM 630-khz (AM-Manila).ABS-CBN has established regional stations and news bureaus to handle operations in different areas throughout the Philippines. It also broadcasts to locations all over the world via The Filipino Channel, managed by ABS-CBN International. Shows are also available for live viewing and subscription via the Internet through ABS-CBN Interactive's ABS-CBNNow! service.ABS-CBN affirms its social responsibility in its slogan, "In the Service of the Filipino", and through the work of the ABS-CBN Foundation. Through multimedia, the foundation has delivered E-TV (Educational Television) VCDs to hundreds of public schools in the country that benefitted students. The foundation is also the umbrella organization of such foundations such as the Knowledge Channel (KCh) Foundation, Bantay Bata (Children's Watch), Bantay Kalikasan (Environment Watch), and ABS-CBN Bayan Foundation (formerly, ABS-CBN Bayan MicroFinance).

The Kapamilya network
In 2003, during the television station's 50th anniversary, ABS-CBN launched its present slogan, "Kapamilya" (literally means "a member of the family"), which it believes reaffirms the network's commitment to quality programming that will foster the morals and values that are ostensibly upheld in many Filipino families.Its international unit ABS-CBN Global Ltd. plans to undertake an initial public offering (IPO) the following year and might list on the Singapore Stock Exchange to help finance its expansion plans.The network celebrated its golden anniversary in 2003. The network held its Kapamilya Homecoming, which gathered over 4,000 former employees and talents for a grand reunion at ABS-CBN’s compound in Bohol Avenue, Quezon City. The network also launched a promo called "Treasure Hunt", where the people were invited to bring their oldest television, radio sets, microphones, and posters. The network also celebrated its 16th year reign in the TV ratings, with 13 of their shows included in the Top 15 daily programs in TV. ABS-CBN also launched new shows such as the then phenomenal Meteor Garden etc. The company also did a nationwide caravan, showcasing the network's talents.On October 2003, the network held a month-long celebration of ABS-CBN and Philippine TV's 50th year. The station produced two commemorative documentaries about the station's contribution in news and entertainment. Sa Mata ng Balita encapsulated some of the most unforgettable, most remarkable, and most celebrated landmarks of the last 50 years as captured by television news. 50 Taong Ligawan: The Pinoy TV History, on the other hand, was the first extensive television documentary done about the history of Philippine Television and the evolution of Philippine entertainment. For the celebration's finale, the broadcasting giant capped its 50th anniversary with a spectacular extravaganza dubbed as Kapamilya: ABS-CBN at 50, held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. It was hailed as one of the biggest media events of the year. The Lopez-led network rolled out the red carpet to welcome its high-profile guests from the business, advertising and media sectors, politics, members of the diplomatic community, with many of the society’s luminaries and glitterati. Valued friends and supporters of the network throughout the five decades also attended the grand affair. The network's official 50 Years station id won an Award for Excellence in the 2004 Golden Quill Festival.On November 7, 2006, ABS-CBN unveiled its flagship coffeetable book, "Kapitan: Geny Lopez and the Making of ABS-CBN." The 453-page book chronicles the hardships and odds that the network founder had to face, as well as the achievements and contributions of ABS-CBN in Philippine Television history. The book won various awards, including Best Biography/Autobiography in the 26th National Book Awards, and a merit award in the publications category of the 2007 Gold Quill Awards. On September 29, 2007, ABS-CBN acquired the exclusive rights to the whole movie library of the late Fernando Poe, Jr., after Susan Roces signed the contract. ABS-CBN Chairman Eugenio Lopez III, Cory Vidanes, Senior Vice President of TVP Production, and Poe’s daughter Grace Poe-Llamanzares were present.
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 9:44:00 AM

Writ of Amparo
On January 22, 2008, Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) supported the petition for Writ of amparo filed by the ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation's 11 employees (led by Ces Oreña-Drilon) with the Supreme Court to rule on the legality of journalists' arrests concerning the failed Manila Peninsula rebellion. It stated: "We support employees from ABS-CBN in standing up for their democratic rights to work free from harassment and intimidation, especially from government officials and authorities." Meanwhile the Supreme Court required the respondents to file comment to the amparo petition within 10 days. Further, Harry Roque, National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP)'s lawyer announced its filing of a class lawsuit for injunction with damages (Article 33, New Civil Code of the Philippines) against the Philippine National Police, inter alia.
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 9:43:00 AM

AGB Nielsen Philippine TV ratings controversy
Legal conflict among AGB Nielsen Philippines, GMA Network and ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation for an alleged television ratings breach that occurred in Philippine cities Bacolod and Iloilo has been ongoing since the last quarter of 2007.On December 20, 2007, Judge Charito Gonzales, Quezon City Regional Trial Court Br. 80 released a temporary restraining order on TV ratings surveys based on a civil case filed by ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation versus AGB Nielsen Media Research Philippines. ABS-CBN accused rival GMA Network of funding bribing operations at Bacolod City, to discredit the former. The Court further ordered ABS-CBN to file comment on the plea of AGB Nielsen for the alleged gathering and dissemination of television ratings data, within five days or until 22 December.On December 21, 2007, dzMM correspondent Junrie Hidalgo reported a news story entitled AGB Nielsen, umamin sa dayaan: GMA Network, tahasang itinurong nasa likod ng dayaan (AGB Nielsen admits the cheating: GMA Network fiercely accused of being responsible of the cheating) during the program Showbiz Mismo, hosted by Cristy Fermin and Jobert Sucaldito. The news story is based on an interview of AGB Nielsen's General Manager Maya Reforma regarding the alleged cheating.In response, GMA aired a TV plug condemning the alleged biased reporting and denied the accusations of ABS-CBN. They later filed a PHP15-million civil libel suit against ABS-CBN on 3 January 2008. The respondents included Hidalgo, Fermin, Sucaldito, the station manager and news manager of DZMM and hosts, writers and executive producers of TV programs Bandila, Entertainment Live and The Buzz after the same story was aired on the mentioned programs.On January 7, 2008, the Quezon City RTC junked ABS-CBN's suit against AGB Nielsen, saying the case was "prematurely filed" before the court. Judge Charito Gonzales's basis is the principle of mutuality of contracts, citing Article 1308 and 1196, New Civil Code of the Philippines. Also, Judge Samuel Gaerlan, QCRTC, Branch 92 issued court summons against ABS-CBN and its 15 personnel, in the P15-million damage suit by GMA Network.On February 1, ABS-CBN presented two witnesses, Romie Diamanse and Francis Casumpang, saying RGMA head Mike Enriquez was said to have given the order to cheat in a meeting. Enriquez denied the charges and said that the statements were "shameless, malicious fiction delivered by tainted informers with an axe to grind." Diamanse and Casumpang were former employees of RGMA's Iloilo Campus Radio FM station. Casumpang resigned from the station after charges of embezzlement, and now works for ABS-CBN's MOR Iloilo. On the other hand, RGMA accepted Diamanse's resignation "because he was regarded as ineffective in his duties."
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 9:30:00 AM

NOVEMBER 11, 2006

GMA Protest Against ABS-CBN and AGB-Nielsen Research
ABS-CBN & AGB Nielsen's Response to GMA's Protest
Greetings from ABS-CBN!

In the past few days, you might have come across a letter signed by a GMA Marketing and Productions executive addressed to clients – advertisers and agencies like yourselves. This letter challenges the integrity and professionalism of AGB-Nielsen Media Research, the industry’s ratings provider, and ABS-CBN, the country’s leading broadcasting group.In the face of a rambunctious competitor over the last few years, we have opted to keep our silence, choosing instead to focus on improving our content and enhancing our service to our clients. We believe that you, our valued clients, have been witness to the fruits of our efforts in improving our hold over our audience and bringing delight to you through our efforts to give client-oriented servicing.However, given this letter that directly questions our company’s integrity we believe that it is time for us to respond.On The Issue of Cable vs. Non-Cable RatingsOur competitor has raised the issue of the difference between cable and non-cable ratings saying they find it difficult to believe that there would be such a big difference in the viewing of programs in households from these two groups.Their lack of understanding comes from their stubborn assumption that there are no differences in the situation of viewers whether they come from cable or non-cable homes.There are many demographic and other variables that make the situation of viewers from cable different from those of non-cable homes. We would also like to add, that similarly, there are differences in the situation of viewers from Metro Manila and the Suburbs.One of the significant differences that define cable or non-cable and Metro Manila or Suburbs viewers has to do with the low-band frequency of ABS-CBN. The signal of ABS-CBN goes through Channel 2, this is the lowest among low- band channels. All Channels from 2 to 6, because of their low-band frequency are vulnerable to noise such as those generated by use of electricity and telecommunications activity. Noise generated does not generally interfere as much with the reception in areas in Metro Manila which are closer to our transmission tower, but they interfere with reception (making it snowy or distorted) in areas further away such as the suburbs. With the increased use of electricity and telecommunication equipment in the past few years, the noise generated has become significant. Thus you will note that ABS-CBN performs significantly better in Metro Manila than in the Suburbs.Even in Metro Manila given its size, the reception of Channel 2 is not completely immune to noise, especially houses located in the fringes (north and south). However, among cable homes, the connection through cable, takes away the vulnerability of ABS-CBN’s reception from noise, especially in instances when ABS-CBN is assigned to a channel 8 (in Destiny, ABS-CBN is still assigned to a low-band channel 6). Thus, among cable homes, the playing field is level – ABS-CBN’s reception is equal to that of any high-band channel. With a level playing field – the only variable now becomes quality of content.In Metro Manila where the handicap of a low-band channel is not as great as the suburbs, you can see our performing significantly better than in the suburbs. Among Cable homes where the playing field is level – you see the proof of our superior content.We have always known that given our single mindedness in improving our content, our performance will shine on a level playing field. We see this also in Iloilo City. For many years in the past, we have lost to competition in Iloilo because the signal reaching Iloilo came from Bacolod, making it weak and putting us at a disadvantage in terms of reception quality. However, once we put up our transmitter in Iloilo in the 4th quarter of 2004, we quickly dominated the area.What ABS-CBN is Doing About Issue of ReceptionThe issue on ABS-CBN reception is limited to areas that are serviced by our Metro Manila transmission tower. These are basically fringes of Metro Manila and the suburbs. However, outside these areas where we have relay stations and local transmission towers, we perform very well.We have both short term and long term plans to address the issue of reception in the fringes of Metro Manila and the Suburbs. We have done communication campaigns for correct antennas. You will have noted our plugs for “Baron” antennas. These types of antennas address the noise issue and give us level playing field. We have done antenna drives (even given free antennas) in some areas. However, the long term solution to our reception issue will come from our introduction of Digital TV. We will be introducing Digital TV starting next year. Under this platform, the issue of reception will become moot.On ABS-CBN Having Prior Knowledge of RatingsOur competitor alludes to a text message sent out by one of our Sales Executives to a few friends that seemed to indicate that we have prior knowledge of ratings.The ABS-CBN executive did NOT have prior knowledge of the overnight ratings for October 4. The executive sent an informal (not an ABS-CBN release) text to a few agency friends on Thursday (Oct. 5). Inadvertently thinking that both Tuesday and Wednesday ratings were out, she referred to the data on hand as ratings for Tuesday and Wednesday. For the record, the only data available on Thursday was data from October 3 (Tuesday). The Wednesday and Thursday numbers came out on Friday (Oct. 6).There was no advance information. No mole unfairly leaking ratings results to us. The Sales Executive has already apologized profusely for her mistake, which inadvertently seems to have led to such an irrational response.Issues with AGB-Nielsen Media ResearchOur competitor raises the question of over sampling of homes defined by certain demographic variables including cable homes. The AGB-Nielsen Media Research panel over samples the AB and C homes in order to allow advertisers targeting the upper and middle class ability to plan their media campaigns adequately. Because of over sampling for the upper and middle class, there is in effect over sampling of cable homes since the incidence of cable subscription is higher among these classes.Over sampling based on some key demographic variables, as long as there is proper downweighting upon data processing to correct it, is an acceptable statistical practice. The core sampling design that went into the establishment of this panel was approved by the industry’s Television Research Council (TVRC).We too have our issues with AGB-Nielsen Media Research. But when we have issues, we discuss these with them and show them solid analysis to support our claims. Almost a year ago, we approached AGB with proof, based on a credible third party research, that their Cebu panel was no longer showing results that represent the truth. They made their own independent check and survey. Upon establishing that not so ideal actions from another party resulted to their panels no longer representing reality, they closed down their provincial panels. They have since put up a new panel in Cebu, and among those of you who have seen the results from their new panel in Cebu, you will see proof that ABS-CBN has never lost its dominance in Cebu.We have other issues with AGB-Nielsen Media Research and we continue to discuss these with them. We do not believe though that a hysterical response will better resolve issues than analytical discussions.We know that not all our issues with AGB-Nielsen Media Research might be resolved, and we have in fact been the first to sign up with another third party for national TV ratings. If we had a mole in AGB, we would not have initiated the entry of another TV ratings provider.ABS-CBN Focused on Improving Content and Better ServiceOver the last few years, we have listened to our audience more, tried to understand them better, and improved our content.In Metro Manila, where our reception handicap is not substantial, you will see the great strides we have made given the response of our audience. We lead in the rest of the Philippines.We have also gone back to solid/fundamental programming – providing our audience with programs that make them feel, look inside themselves, think about their values and celebrate their humanity. You will see this in the breadth of our offering which is aligned with our mission to Serve the Filipinos and not pander to their escapist tendencies.Look at what we have achieved. We are competitive among the highly sought after female 20+ who affirm themselves and their values with such powerful offerings like Bituing Walang Ningning, Sa Piling Mo, Maging Sino Ka Man and MMK. Filipinos from all walks of life find embracive acceptance in Wowowee. We are helping raise better children by bringing value laden programs like Wansapanatym, Noypi, Super Inggo and Pedro Penduko. Young and old examine themselves through lives reflected in Pinoy Big Brother and Pinoy Dream Academy and find thrill in seeing people test their limits in game shows like Pilipinas Game Ka Na Ba and Kapamilya Deal or No Deal. Empowered males (who are more likely employed) respond favorably to empowering Current Affairs shows like XXX and SOCO and content driven news programs like TV Patrol World and Bandila.And we have achieved all these because our will to serve is guided by our principles of Honesty, Integrity and Professionalism, and supported by our value of Partnership.Our valued clients, we continue to affirm our commitment to service – to the Filipino People and to you. We in ABS-CBN take our values seriously. We can do no less for we are the network – In the Service of the Filipino Worldwide.

Maraming Salamat po.


Very truly yours,

JOSE AGUSTIN C. BENITEZ, JR.

Head, ABS-CBN Channel 2 Sales


-------Letter from AGB Nielsen Media Research November 3, 2006--------


To our valued partners in the industry:In a letter dated 16 October 2006 sent to advertisers and media agencies, GMA Marketing & Productions President & COO Mr. Manuel P. Quiogue expressed GMA’s “critical concerns” about our television ratings data.The focus of GMA’s “critical concerns” was the big difference in the viewing of certain GMA programs between cable and non-cable viewers and between Sky Cable/Home Cable subscribers and other cable companies’ subscribers.Time and again, we have explained to GMA what we think are the possible causes of the aforesaid difference in viewership. As early as 2003, we gave our response to the Television Research Council which managed the study for the industry and gave its own response to GMA.We even consulted GMA in 2005, along with other partners in the industry, when we set up a new audience measurement panel for Mega Manila following the merger with Nielsen Media Research. Significantly, even after 100% of all cable panels were replaced, the data differences for cable viewing remained approximately the same.Understandably, there will be occasions when not everyone will be pleased with our TV audience measurement results; some will be very disappointed. But on other occasions our broadcaster clients can be very happy with the ratings data. Interestingly, those same broadcasters never question the results when their programs perform well.We stand by the integrity of our data. AGB Nielsen Media Research abides by the Global Guidelines in TV Audience Measurement (GGTAM) endorsed by expert practitioners in television audience measurement worldwide. Our reputation as the world leader in TAM has been built on a commitment to independence, reliability and transparency. We will not change our data to assuage the concerns or suit the needs of any client.Mr. Quiogue’s letter stated there was “cause for alarm” and referred to a text message allegedly sent by an ABS-CBN sales executive reporting, even before we released our Oct. 4 data, that ABS-CBN’s programs beat those of GMA’s. In his letter, Mr. Quiogue claimed:“Interestingly, when the ratings for Wednesday were released two days laterwe were surprised to see that the ratings cited by the ABS-CBN sales executive were substantially correct.”As subscribers to the same data, you can validate for yourselves GMA’s claim. I reiterate and confirm what I said in my email reply to Mr. Quiogue, and I quote: “ABS-CBN’s claim that they have the October 4 data is absolutely false as we haven’t released any data yet and have only started to produce it today…”As you may know, we launched the AGB Nielsen Media Research NUTAM service on 26 October 2006—the same day GMA’s letter (dated 16 October 2006) was reportedly sent to advertisers and media agencies.The NUTAM (National Urban TV Audience Measurement) service provides the industry with an expanded panel across 90% of the national urban regions of the Philippines, which effectively gives its users a clear picture of viewing outside Metro Manila. This changes the television landscape and the manner in which advertisers will allocate their TV investments to achieve cost efficiency and maximize reach. With this larger geographical measurementcoverage, a greater level of accountability and confidence in television as a primary advertising medium is achieved.The NUTAM service is a testament to our steadfast commitment to deliver an improved television audience measurement service. It ensures that the advertising industry in the Philippines benefits from the world’s best practice in TAM research.We measure, and report. Nothing more, nothing less.AGB Nielsen Media Research will protect and defend its reputation to the full extent of the law.Thank you.


Yours sincerely,

MAYA F. REFORMA

General Manager

AGB Nielsen Media Research Phils. Inc.


Source: http://www.rgcruz.com/?p=300
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 10:25:00 AM

NOVEMBER 10, 2006

ABS-CBN Trivia
First TV station in Metro Manila: Alto Broadcasting System-ABS Channel 3 (October 23, 1953)First TV slogan: The Prime Network (1960's)
First TV noontime variety gameshow: Student Canteen (1958)
First TV game of chance: What's My Living? (1958)
First TV English newscast: The World Tonight (1960's)
First provincial TV station: DYCB-TV Channel 3 (June 14, 1961)
First TV soap opera: Hiwaga Sa Bahay Na Bato (1962)
First TV telethon: Damayan (1972)
First TV gag show: Super Laff-In (1960's)
First TV teen program: D'Sensations (1970's)
First TV morning show program: Magandang Umaga (1987)
First TV tabloid news program: TV Patrol (1987)
First TV news regional program: Good Morning! Philippines (1987)
First TV gag show for kids: Ang TV (1992)
First TV news program to use a theme performed by a rock band: Bandila (2006)
Posted by ABS-CBN Informatic at 2:19:00 PM

NOVEMBER 9, 2006

About ABS-CBN
ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation

Type
Public (PSE: ABS)

Founded
June 13, 1946

Headquarters
Quezon City, Philippines

Key people
Eugenio Lopez III, CEO and President James Lindenberg, Founder (of the Bolinao Electronics Corporation)

Industry
Broadcast television and radio network

Revenue
PHP8.39 billion ( 7% YoY) (1H2006)

Operating income
PHP634 million ( 63%) (1H2005)

Net income
PHP516 million ( 142%) (1H2006)

Employees
5,509

Website
www.abs-cbn.com

ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation (PSE: ABS) (ABS-CBN formerly meant "Alto Broadcasting System-Chronicle Broadcasting Network"), a leading Philippine multi-media conglomerate, is the country's largest television and radio broadcast company. It was founded on October 23, 1953, becoming Asia's first commercial television broadcaster. It is a part of the Lopez Group of Companies, the parent company of ABS-CBN, its subsidiaries, and other Lopez-owned companies.The network's main broadcast facilities, news headquarters, transmitter and satellite operations and studio complex are located at the ABS-CBN Broadcast Center at Sgt Esguerra Avenue and Mother Igancia St., Diliman, Quezon City.