PTV-Legazpi as training hub for future broadcasters

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- Residents of Albay province now have additional access to accurate information on the presidency and the Marcos administration following the opening of a station of the People’s Television Network, Inc. (PTNI), officially known as PTV, in Barangay Estanza here on Monday.

During the inauguration, PTNI General Manager Antonio Nebrida Jr. highlighted their readiness to share insights from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on his initiatives through a trustworthy and reliable source.

He also shared his vision of PTV as a premier training ground for the broadcast industry and for future journalists and technical professionals.

“Today’s event is very significant. There will be no fake news or speculative information about the government because the main government agency is here in Legazpi, with the mandate to inform citizens about the information coming from the national government,” he said.

Nebrida vowed that PTV will serve the public in a progressive, innovative, and forward-looking manner.

“We are open to exploring new partnerships and collaborations with our local communities and stakeholders. This will include creating local and community-generated content that specifically caters to the needs and interests of the host community,” he added.

He said the PTNI aspires “for a future where budding journalists, graphic and digital artists, and electronic and communications engineers from Bicol University and the University of Santo Tomas (UST-Legazpi) will no longer need to travel to Manila or other cities for their internship or apprenticeship requirements.”

“With PTV now established here, we hope to provide opportunities for them to kickstart their exciting careers right here at home,” he added.

Engineer Gil Orense, PTNI’s chief digital and innovative officer, said the opening symbolizes the state television’s commitment to bringing reliable information not only to the city but also to the entire province.

“This is more than just a station; it is a platform for connection, empowerment, and progress. The launch of this station reflects our dedication to ensuring that public service broadcasting reaches every corner of the nation. By amplifying the stories, culture, and achievements of Legazpi City and Albay province, we are fostering stronger connections and uplifting local voices,” he said.

Orense said the PTV Legazpi Channel 39 station is a testament to its mission of bringing the government closer to the people.

Nebrida, meanwhile, thanked Misibis Land Inc. and the Ako Bicol Party-list, led by Rep. Elizaldy Co, for their partnership with PTV forged through a memorandum of agreement.

For his part, Legazpi City Mayor Alfredo Garbin Jr. described the new station as a vital platform for delivering valuable news and information, empowering citizens with knowledge, and fostering transparency in governance.

“May this station stand as a symbol of our shared commitment to progress, informed communities, and public service. Let it be a beacon of truth for the people of Legazpi,” he said.

The PHP34.5-million PTV Legazpi project includes the construction of a TV broadcast tower and transmitter building equipped with an initial 600-watt digital terrestrial television broadcasting transmitter, prior to fully implementing a 1-kilowatt system.

Established in 1974, PTNI has become the country’s premier source of government news and information, operating under the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Acts (RA) 7306 and 10390. (PNA)

MILESTONE. Legazpi City Mayor Alfredo Garbin Jr. (right) congratulates People’s Television Network Inc. General Manager Antonio Nebrida Jr. on the launch of the new PTV station in Legazpi City on Monday (Dec. 16, 2014). Nebrida said the station will be a premier training ground for future broadcast industry members, journalists, and technical professionals. (PNA photo by Connie Calipay)