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Satnews Daily
May 22nd, 2017

Philippines to Receive a New DTH Service Via ABS and SOLAR Group


ABS and the SOLAR Group, one of the largest content providers in the Philippines, have formed a joint venture partnership to launch the first nationwide Free-to-View DTH television service in the Philippines.  
 
The new service will be available on C-band via the ABS-6 satellite that covers the Philippines. Unlike most Ku-band DTH services, the C-band service will not be susceptible to rain degradation. The free-to-view platform is scheduled to launch in Q3 2017 and will host a bouquet of 40 to 50 high quality domestic and international channels. Content will include different genres of programming from general entertainment, music, movies, sports, lifestyle, infotainment, children’s and local content.


Artistic rendition of the ABS-6 satellite.

Unlike other pay TV services, consumers in the Philippines will only need to make a one-time purchase of an affordable DTH kit which includes a small parabolic antenna and decoder STB and will be able to enjoy an array of digital quality and compelling programming with no monthly fees.

The CEO of ABS, Tom Choi, noted that the SOLAR Group is one of the most highly respected broadcast and media companies in the Philippines. This is a perfect strategic partnership with each party bringing unique strengths and experience to drive the success of this platform. For the first time in the Philippines, everyone will be able to afford high quality television programming for free, including consumers living in the rural areas and outlying islands.

Adding his thoughts, SOLAR Group President and CEO, Wilson Y. Tieng,  noted that ABS’ comprehensive understanding of this business was a key factor in the company's decision to work together and launch this platform in the Philippines. With their extensive experience on launching and operating similar DTH services in other markets, such as in Indonesia, they were able to bring their expertise in designing and operating the platform. This allowed SOLAR to focus on programming, marketing and distribution, rather than the technical operations.