Beleaguered network RPN 9 is determined to resume airing local variety programs—which it was known for in the 1970s and 1980s—via the nationwide talent search “Boses: Tinig P-Noy” according to its president and CEO Robert T. Rivera.
“Superstar Nora Aunor came from RPN 9; ‘Ang Bagong Kampeon,’ the singing contest hosted by Pilita Corrales and the late Bert ‘Tawa’ Marcelo produced Regine Velasquez,” Rivera pointed out. “‘Eat Bulaga!’ was with the network for years, as well as German Moreno’s ‘Young Love, Sweet Love.’”
Through “Boses,” a contest currently airing on RPN 9’s 12 radio stations nationwide, the network hopes to discover and develop its own pool of talents, said Rivera. They will be featured in a variety show that the network intends to produce by the end of the year.
Contest winners will bring home a P1-million cash prize, as well as a recording and a talent management contract with RPN 9.
The contest is open to all a cappella duos and trios with members aged 15 and above. He said: “A representative from our partner, Center for Pop Music Philippines, acts as judge during the weekly eliminations, as well as during the monthly show.”
The first round of auditions for “Boses” was held in Baguio in June. The second leg was held in Cagayan de Oro City on July 27.
Rivera refused to confirm whether these projects were a positive effect of the infusion of capital by the network’s new owners, Solar Entertainment, which owns 34 percent of RPN 9; and Far East Managers and Investors Inc, 32 percent.
(mcruz@inquirer.com.ph)