TELECOM | GMA Network, PLDT-Smart partner for ‘game-changing’ digital TV innovation

GMA Network, Inc. – through GMA New Media, Inc. (NMI) – and PLDT-Smart Communications, Inc. laid the groundwork of a formidable partnership that is set to revolutionize the experience of TV viewing in the Philippines.

During a signing ceremony held January 9, 2019 in Makati City, the companies entered into a technology, content, and distribution agreement that will involve the launch of game-changing innovations that will power the media giant’s digital transformation.

“This partnership is a clear statement that we are welcoming disruption and embracing digital with open arms. By riding the wave of disruption with PLDT and Smart as partners, we will not only upgrade the quality of content we are producing but we are also setting the stage for a new age of digital television,” said Felipe L. Gozon, GMA Network chairman and chief executive.

“As we transform our business from being a legacy telco into the premier and most trusted digital enabler in the country, this partnership will enable us to power GMA’s digital pivot and help deliver to our millions of fixed and wireless subscribers GMA 7’s unique and compelling content, as well as exciting new digital experiences to more Filipino families,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, PLDT and Smart chairman and chief executive.

Also present during the said event were GMA Network President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr.; GMA Network Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong; GMA Network’s Executive Committee Vice Chairman Joel G. Jimenez; NMI President and COO Judd Gallares; and NMI Senior Vice President and General Manager Dennis Caharian.

Representing PLDT and Smart were Oscar Enrico A. Reyes, SVP and head of Consumer Business–Market Development; Ernesto R. Alberto, EVP and chief revenue officer; and Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman and chief executive.