RPTV goes on air after the shutdown of CNN Philippines. Image: Courtesy of TV5 and MediaQuest
A day after the shutdown of CNN Philippines and the removal of its digital platforms, TV5 and MediaQuest-owned RPTV was launched on the news outlet’s frequency on Thursday, Feb. 1.
The free-to-air channel is said to contain “sports, news, and entertainment designed to entertain the Filipino family,” according to a release from the media conglomerates.
“The birth of RPTV is aligned with our commitment to elevate the standards of entertainment, sports, and public service broadcasting in the Philippines,” said TV5 president and CEO Guido R. Zaballero.
The noontime show “Eat Bulaga” of the comedic trio of Tito and Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon will be aired on RPTV, as well as the morning program “Gud Morning Kapatid” led by Gretchen Ho, and the live telecast of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Premier Volleyball League (PVL), and Gilas Pilipinas games.
Also part of its lineup are the morning show “Ted Failon and DJ Chacha” and “Wanted Sa Radyo” featuring Sen. Raffy Tulfo. Other details on the network’s other offerings are yet to be announced, as of this writing.
CNN Philippines went off the air on Jan. 31, just days after confirming the shutdown of its operations earlier this week. Citing financial losses worth more than P5 billion, its local franchise holder decided to pull its plug from the airwaves.
This led to the removal of the news outlet’s website and social media accounts from the internet, as well as the loss of approximately 300 jobs.