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DWKC-DTV
View on WikipediaDWKC-DTV (channel 31) is a television station in Metro Manila, Philippines, serving as the flagship of Broadcast Enterprises and Affiliated Media, Inc. Its main office is located at the 3rd floor, Globe Telecom Plaza 1, Pioneer Street corner Madison St., Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila while its transmitter and master control is located at Palos Verdes Subdivision, Sumulong Highway, Barangay Santa Cruz, Antipolo City, Rizal Province.[1]
Key Information
History
[edit]As CTV-31
[edit]On October 31, 1993, Radio Mindanao Network became the second radio-based network to launch a TV station called Cinema Television 31 (CTV-31) through its flagship station, DWKC-TV. An all-movie channel, its programming included a presentation of Filipino and Hollywood movies respectively, and programs from E!, an American cable channel. It is the first UHF station to be inspired by the format of a cable movie channel. The station once clinched a top spot for its TV ratings in all UHF stations.[2] However, because of the broadcasting rules assigned by National Telecommunications Commission and the matter that they acquired the broadcast rights from E!, CTV-31 stopped its broadcast in September 2000, exacerbated by stiff competition from Studio 23 (now known as S+A, and later IZTV/Aliw 23), a UHF rival operated by ABS-CBN Corporation through AMCARA Broadcasting Network. .
E! Philippines 31 and ceased transmission
[edit]
In October 2000, E! and RMN announced its partnership to relaunch CTV into E! Philippines Channel 31, with its broadcasting extended into 24 hours.[3] But in 2003, it reduced its broadcasts into 12 broadcasting-hours, from 12:00 PM to 12:00 MN. Some of E!'s programs were brought to the Philippines and remade in a local version, one of which was Wild On! Philippines. However, on June 1, 2003, RMN decided to cease their operations on TV due to financial constraints and poor television ratings as well as increasing losses and debts brought about by few advertisers (e.g. Fortune Tobacco Corporation; now PMFTC), and somehow to focus only on their 2 radio networks (RMN and iFM). There were several religious groups who had wished to acquire block programming of E! Philippines, but RMN refused to accept their offers. Some programs of E! were broadcast later to Q (now GTV, current aired over Channel 27) via E! on Q, ETC (aired over SBN), Solar News Channel (aired over RPN), and Velvet (now defunct).
From July 2011 to December 31, 2019, E! (now defunct) has been available on most major cable/satellite systems in the Philippines distributed by Universal Networks International (a subsidiary of NBCUniversal).[4]
As BEAM Channel 31
[edit]Initial Broadcast and The Game Channel
[edit]
After almost eight years of inactivity on television service, on July 3, 2011, UHF 31 returned its operations as a test broadcast.[5] The station (along with some RMN-owned UHF stations nationwide) was occupied by Broadcast Enterprises and Affiliated Media, after the latter bought up the acquisition by Bethlehem Holdings, Inc. (funded by Globe Telecom's Group Retirement Fund) from RMN.[6][7] Under new ownership, BEAM began its affiliation partnership with Solar Entertainment Corporation.
The network was branded on July 13 as BEAM Channel 31. On August 15, 2011, it started its initial broadcast carrying The Game Channel.[8]
As CHASE
[edit]On December 24, 2011, The Game Channel limited its broadcast on daytime sharing with a new programming service called CHASE which takes over the evening block. In February 2012, both services aired a promotion, announcing the split of CHASE and TGC to form themselves as separate channels, which entitled "CHASE goes 24". The changes took effect on February 15, 2012, when The Game Channel bade goodbye to the viewers after its 7-month run on free TV and became a cable-only channel; while CHASE leased and took its entire BEAM airtime on free TV.
As Jack City
[edit]On September 7, 2012, Jack TV plugged their announcement thru CHASE programs bearing the title "Another Jack TV is rising, coming soon on this channel" (BEAM Channel 31). This indicated that CHASE was being replaced; finally, on October 20, 2012, Jack City was then launched, marking October 19 as the end of CHASE's broadcasts. Jack City still does carry some of CHASE's programs however.[9][10] The full broadcast was initiated on November 11, 2012. On June 28, 2013, Jack City was forced to reduce its Free TV broadcast to 18 hours a day on BEAM in compliance with the National Telecommunications Commission's guidelines. However, it still continues to air as a cable channel 24 hours a day.
On July 16, 2014, the day that Metro Manila was crippled by "Typhoon Glenda (Rammasun)", the station became inactive. It was later found out that the transmitter located in Palos Verdes in Antipolo, Rizal received a total damage to some of its facilities done by the said typhoon. As a result, the station shuts down temporarily for another maintenance, and continued its telecast on cable networks. Somehow it resumed telecast on August 10, 2014, at 9:00 PM, but still under observation.
Digital television broadcast and Independent telecast
[edit]On September 1, 2014, Jack City ceased its affiliation status on BEAM Channel 31 and its provincial affiliates, as BEAM prepares its ISDB-T digital television. However, Jack City continues to broadcast on pay TV networks until March 21, 2015, when the channel was rebranded as CT a day later on March 22, 2015.
At the same day, it began using blocktime programs from O Shopping (of ABS-CBN Corporation and CJ Group of Korea) and several programs from TBN Asia (including The 700 Club Asia and Praise the Lord) along with religious programming produced by the Essential Broadcasting Network under the leadership of Bro. Greg Durante of Greg Durante Ministries.
On November 15, 2014, the channel is carried over SkyCable, Destiny Cable and other Pay TV subscribers (per compliance with NTC's "must-carry" basis), displacing Jack City to a different cable channel assignment, which is only available for subscribers residing in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces. This also makes BEAM available to cable viewers 24 hours a day once again when it took effect four months later, on March 12, 2015.
On March 1, 2015, TV Shop Philippines (also known as revival of Value Vision) began airing on this channel in the afternoon, followed by selected Tagalog-dubbed telenovelas carried from the now-defunct Telenovela Channel on nighttime.
On March 9, 2015, the channel also added Shop Japan to its programming during morning hours; Shop TV began its infomercial service on February 22, 2016 (Shop TV, ironically, is owned by BEAM's former blocktime partner Solar Entertainment), but would end transmission with BEAM after December 31, 2018.
By March 1, 2016, all of BEAM's programs were split into digital television streams. O Shopping, TBN, TV Shop and Shop Japan were relocated as their respective digital subchannel of its own; while BEAM became an affiliate of Shop TV in its analog signal, allowing it to cover most of BEAM's airtime (Tagalog-dubbed telenovelas remained on the analog channel during primetime).
In May 2016, BEAM added the live video streaming service of Philippine Daily Inquirer and Trans-Radio Broadcasting Corporation's Radyo Inquirer 990 as its new subchannel affiliate, coinciding with the 2016 Philippine elections.[11] Within the same month, Bacolod City-based travel and lifestyle cable channel Island Living (broadcasting its programs through provincial cable operators including some affiliates of SkyCable from Visayas and Mindanao) became BEAM's new subchannel, followed by the replacement of TBN Asia with Taiwan-based Christian pay TV channel GOOD TV (which is in fact aired as a former blocktime program from Light Network (now Light TV) and as a standalone channel on Destiny Cable and Cignal). GOOD TV PH, however, was replaced by infomercial service EZShop weeks later. Its channel space on digital television remains vacant since July 2016, with GCTV returned a few months later.
The channel split of BEAM was finally completed in August 2016 when telenovelas were removed from the network's main/analog feed. Since then, constant changes occur on its digital subchannels from time to time.
On September 1, 2016, Filipino cultural channel Pilipinas HD (owned by the late sportscaster Chino Trinidad) was added to BEAM's subchannel lineup.
On January 4, 2020, BEAM's digital transmission was changed frequency from UHF channel 32 to 50, and upon ceasing transmission on analog in 2022, it moved to its current frequency on channel 31.
Subchannel adjustments and migration to digital broadcast
[edit]In 2021, Jesus is Shield Worldwide Ministries acquired a timeshare block on BEAM's 3rd subchannel occupied by Pilipinas HD. The said timeshare block carried the syndicated religious program Oras ng Himala on a mid-morning and primetime evening slot basis until December 30, 2022.
In preparation for their full migration to digital broadcast, BEAM TV announced that they will discontinue their broadcast on analog after 10 years for the second time on January 1, 2022, hence, they're the fourth broadcaster to shift in full digital operations to do so. BEAM TV on analog telecast made its final sign-off appearance on December 31, 2021, as the station was now fully migrated to digital broadcast only. As of January 18, 2022 (18 days later, after its analog shutdown), BEAM TV Digital broadcast started to operate on UHF 31, but still under maintenance as the network still trying to migrate its signal operations which is currently using the digital transmission on UHF 50 in the area.[citation needed]
On April 6, 2022, BEAM announced its co-ownership with ABS-CBN Corporation, Kroma Entertainment and 917Ventures for its launching of Pinoy Interactive Entertainment or PIE, with ABS-CBN served as its main content production provider while Kroma Entertainment as its technological innovative interaction format backed by 917Ventures.[12] The channel started its test broadcast on April 25, 2022, showcasing unprompted daily questions each day until May 15, followed by a seven-day "Countdown to TagumPIE" special day on May 16–22, and made its official launch on May 23, 2022.[13][14][15]
In June 2022, Knowledge Channel moved from Channel 50 to its 2nd subchannel on the Channel 31 digital signal.[citation needed]
On September 13, 2022, BEAM signed an agreement to broadcast the timeshare simulcast with ALLTV owned by Villar Group's Prime Asset Ventures, Inc. (Streamtech through Planet Cable's Advanced Media Broadcasting System) was added to their subchannel lineup. The said move was done to increase the latter's nationwide reach. However, on January 1, 2024, PIE and ALLTV both terminated on BEAM TV's digital subchannel due to the former migrating to digital and the latter's expiration of its licensing agreement, which would not be renewed.
On January 17, 2024, BEAM added Blast Sports on its digital subchannel lineup after the latter signed an agreement with TAP Digital Media Ventures Corporation. The new channel was named after TAP DMV's own streaming platform, Blast TV, and airs selected sporting events that are also broadcast on TAP Sports and Premier Sports. The said channel ceased broadcasting on September 1, 2025, and was replaced by UFC TV, a dedicated channel for Ultimate Fighting Championships, still under the operation of TAP DMV.
Programming
[edit]Digital television
[edit]Digital channels
[edit]DWKC-DTV currently operates on UHF Channel 31 (575.143 MHz) and is multiplexed into the following subchannels:
| Channel | Video | Aspect | Short name | Programming | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31.1 | 480i | 16:9 | PRTV PRIME | PRTV Prime Media | Commercial broadcast |
| 31.2 | UFC TV | UFC TV | |||
| 31.3 | KNOWLEDGE CHANNEL | Knowledge Channel | |||
| 31.4 | RESERVED | SMPTE Color Bars | Test broadcast | ||
| 31.5 | BILYONARYO NEWS CHANNEL | Bilyonaryo News Channel | Commercial broadcast | ||
| 31.6 | D8TV | D8TV |
Transition to digital television
[edit]According to BEAM president Steve Macion, the station is expected to replace the 50 kW (4,050 kilowatt ERP) analog transmitter with a new, DTT-ready transmitter which is currently under transition and would be completed by the end of 2015. Cebu, Davao and Iloilo stations are also expected to upgrade to digital broadcast.[16][17]
Aside from blocktimers, BEAM is now looking for local and foreign partnerships to allocate and generate content up to eight digital free TV channels.[18]
In 2016, DYCT-DTV and DXKC-DTV, BEAM's stations in Cebu and Davao, respectively, conducted DTT test transmissions on UHF channel 32. DYRM-DTV, BEAM's Iloilo station, conducted its DTT test in 2017.[citation needed]
Areas of coverage
[edit]Primary areas
[edit]Secondary areas
[edit]- Portion of Pampanga
- Portion of Nueva Ecija
- Portion of Bataan
- Portion of Batangas
BEAM TV stations in the Philippines
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "RMN TV Station Networks". Asiawaves. Retrieved October 9, 2011.
- ^ Gaviola, Gilbert S. (October 31, 1994). "A good showing, a strong following, a bright future". Manila Standard. Retrieved January 9, 2019.
- ^ Vanzi, Sol Jose (October 1, 2000). "RMN JOINT VENTURE FOR E! PHILIPPINES". Philippine Headline News Online. Retrieved January 9, 2019.
- ^ The launch of E! Entertainment Television in the Philippines PEP.ph. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
- ^ DWKC-TV BEAM Channel 31 Test Broadcast retrieved via www.youtube.com October 8, 2011
- ^ Lectura, Lenie. "Globe buys into two broadcast firms". Business Mirror. ABS-CBNnews.com. Retrieved November 10, 2011.
- ^ Iglesia, Myla. "NTC favors Japan digital TV". Business Insight. Business Insight. Archived from the original on March 27, 2012. Retrieved November 17, 2011.
- ^ THE GAME CHANNEL commercials retrieved via www.youtube.com Oct 27, 2011
- ^ Sallan, Edwin. "Solar launches new free channel JackCITY". News5. InterAksyon.com. Archived from the original on December 10, 2013. Retrieved November 28, 2012.
- ^ Redefining Drama Solar Entertainment Corporation Launches 'JackCity' ClickTheCity.com. Retrieved January 12, 2012.
- ^ The Election Coverage with Inquirer 990 TV. Retrieved May 12, 2016.
- ^ Pascual, Jekki (6 April 2022). "ABS-CBN, Globe's Kroma to launch interactive channel PIE". ABS-CBN News. Retrieved 9 October 2023.
- ^ "PIE Channel delivers fun and prizes on TV, online starting May 23". ABS-CBN Corporate. May 18, 2022. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
- ^ "PIE, the first interactive channel in the Philippines, gets a big budget to create great content". Lionheartv. May 21, 2022. Retrieved May 21, 2022.
- ^ "PIE channels begins broadcast on May 23". ABS-CBN News. May 23, 2022. Retrieved May 23, 2022.
- ^ "BEAM upgrades transmitters to support digital TV". ABS-CBN News. 5 August 2014. Retrieved 9 October 2023.
- ^ "BEAM supports NTC's shift to digital TV". Archived from the original on September 3, 2014. Retrieved September 1, 2014.
- ^ Globe seeks content partnerships for digital TV venture ABS-CBNnews.com. Retrieved April 22, 2015.
DWKC-DTV
View on GrokipediaHistory
Origins as CTV-31 and E! Philippines
Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) founded its first television venture, Cinema Television (CTV-31), on October 31, 1993, operating as an independent UHF station on channel 31 serving Metro Manila. The station emerged as the second radio-based network in the Philippines to enter television broadcasting, following RMN's expansion from its radio roots established in 1961. As an independent outlet, CTV-31 emphasized movies and entertainment programming, airing a selection of Filipino and Hollywood films alongside variety shows to appeal to urban audiences in the capital region. The channel's content strategy positioned it as a dedicated cinematic platform, distinguishing it from the dominant VHF networks by leveraging UHF's potential for niche programming without network affiliations. This focus helped CTV-31 build a modest viewership during its initial years, though it operated amid a competitive landscape dominated by established broadcasters. In October 2000, RMN partnered with E! Entertainment Television to rebrand and relaunch the station as E! Philippines, adapting the international network's format for local audiences. The revamped channel extended operations to 24 hours daily, featuring celebrity news segments, red carpet coverage from global events, and imported lifestyle programs such as E! News and behind-the-scenes Hollywood specials. This partnership aimed to capitalize on the growing interest in international entertainment, blending localized content with E!'s signature glamour-oriented programming to attract younger, urban demographics. Despite the relaunch's ambitions, E! Philippines faced mounting financial challenges, exacerbated by limited advertising revenue from key sponsors like Fortune Tobacco and persistently low ratings in a market favoring major networks. On June 1, 2003, RMN halted transmissions entirely, citing unsustainable losses and operational costs that strained the company's resources. This closure prompted RMN to divest its television assets and refocus exclusively on its core radio network, marking the end of its brief foray into TV broadcasting.Acquisition by BEAM TV and initial relaunch
Broadcast Enterprises and Affiliated Media, Inc. (BEAM), founded in 2009 as an investment firm backed by Bethlehem Holdings, Inc. (an affiliate of the Globe Telecom Group Retirement Fund), revived the dormant UHF Channel 31 frequency previously used by RMN. The channel relaunched on July 3, 2011, as BEAM Channel 31, beginning with test broadcasts to verify signal integrity and equipment functionality. Initial operations utilized analog transmission with an effective radiated power (ERP) of approximately 50 kW from a transmitter site in the Greater Manila area, while studios were relocated to BEAM's facilities at 3/F Globe Telecom Plaza 1 in Mandaluyong City. Programming commenced on August 15, 2011, through an affiliation with Solar Entertainment Corporation's The Game Channel, which aired content focused on sports events, gaming shows, and related entertainment to attract a niche audience of young viewers and enthusiasts. Early broadcasts were limited to 16 hours daily, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., reflecting resource constraints and a gradual rollout strategy. BEAM faced initial challenges in audience building, including competition from established VHF networks and the need to promote UHF reception in households, but the sports-gaming focus helped establish a foothold in the underserved segment of interactive and leisure programming. Regulatory compliance with National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) guidelines ensured smooth operations, though limited hours restricted full-day coverage during the startup phase.[1]Evolution of channel branding and formats
On December 24, 2011, BEAM Channel 31 introduced CHASE Channel in the evening block alongside The Game Channel, shifting focus to lifestyle and youth-oriented programming, including travel series and entertainment shows aimed at a younger audience. This pivot aimed to attract viewers with content emphasizing fashion, adventure, and modern living, marking a departure from previous sports-heavy formats.[7] The channel fully transitioned to the Jack City affiliation on October 20, 2012, adopting a format centered on action movies, male-targeted entertainment, imported series, and local productions such as action-packed dramas and sports highlights. This change was driven by partnerships with Solar Entertainment, allowing BEAM TV to leverage popular action genres to boost viewership among adult males. On September 1, 2014, the Jack City affiliation ceased as BEAM TV prepared for its digital broadcasting transition, leading to temporary independent operations. During this period, the channel relied on key programming blocks like movie marathons featuring classic action films and extended infomercial segments to fill airtime, with viewership remaining modest but stable in urban areas up to 2021. These format pivots were influenced by internal decisions at BEAM TV, based on ratings performance and strategic partnerships, including evaluations of audience demographics and market trends in the Philippine UHF landscape. The digital migration efforts beginning in 2014 influenced these changes by prioritizing infrastructure upgrades over long-term affiliations.Shift to digital broadcasting and independent status
DWKC-DTV began digital testing on November 15, 2014, using ISDB-T standards, and ceased its analog transmissions at the end of 2021, marking the station's complete shift to digital broadcasting in alignment with the Philippines' ongoing analog switch-off efforts. This transition enabled BEAM TV to activate full ISDB-T digital operations starting in early 2022, initially with a single-channel broadcast that laid the foundation for subsequent subchannel expansion.[1] The move to digital solidified DWKC-DTV's status as an independent network, free from major affiliations with established broadcasters like GMA or ABS-CBN for its core programming. BEAM emphasized self-produced content, including movies, lifestyle shows, and interactive formats, to differentiate the channel in the competitive free-to-air landscape. This independence allowed greater flexibility in scheduling and content curation, focusing on BEAM's in-house productions and strategic partnerships for subchannels.[1] In the years following the digital launch, BEAM made several adjustments to its subchannel lineup to optimize viewer offerings. For instance, Knowledge Channel, an educational service from ABS-CBN, was integrated as a dedicated subchannel on DWKC-DTV starting October 5, 2021, to enhance accessibility for distance learning programs. Additionally, temporary test patterns were broadcast on unused subchannels during the initial digital rollout to ensure signal stability before permanent content assignment. A key addition came in September 2022, when ALLTV—operated by Advanced Media Broadcasting System under a blocktime agreement—launched on the network, providing news and variety programming to broaden the multiplex's appeal; this agreement ended on January 1, 2024. These changes exemplified BEAM's strategy to diversify its digital bouquet without relying on traditional network ties.[8] The digital shift significantly enhanced DWKC-DTV's operational capabilities, enabling high-definition (HD) broadcasting on the main channel and simultaneous multiple streams across subchannels. This increased capacity supported richer content delivery, such as improved video quality for movies and interactive elements in shows like PIE, while accommodating up to six subchannels without spectrum interference. Overall, the transition positioned BEAM as a nimble independent player, capable of rapid content updates and regional expansions in the evolving digital TV ecosystem.[1][6]Ownership and operations
Corporate structure and licensing
Broadcast Enterprises and Affiliated Media, Inc. (BEAM) serves as the primary corporate entity responsible for the operation of DWKC-DTV, functioning as a telecommunications and multimedia company focused on UHF broadcasting and digital terrestrial television in the Philippines.[1] The company is 100% owned by Bethlehem Holdings, Inc., a media investment firm under the Globe Telecom Group Retirement Fund, which provides financial backing through its retirement fund investments.[1] In 2009, BEAM was acquired by Bethlehem Holdings, Inc. from the Canoy family, owners of Radio Mindanao Network, coinciding with the shift to television broadcasting on frequencies previously used by RMN. This structure positions BEAM as an independent broadcaster within the broader Globe Telecom ecosystem, with headquarters located at the 3/F Globe Telecom Plaza 1 in Mandaluyong City.[1] BEAM traces its origins to the early 1990s, with its congressional broadcast franchise granted on July 5, 1995, enabling initial operations in radio and eventual expansion into television.[9] The company launched its flagship television service on UHF Channel 31 in 2011. Under this framework, BEAM has maintained operational stability, with no significant changes in ownership or corporate governance reported as of November 2025.[1] DWKC-DTV operates under authorization from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), with permit BSD-0077-2022 originally valid until March 16, 2025, permitting transmission at an effective radiated power (ERP) of 865 kW on UHF Channel 31.[10] As of late 2025, the station continues broadcasting in compliance with NTC regulations, believed to reflect necessary permit renewals to support ongoing digital terrestrial operations across Metro Manila and relay sites.[6] While affiliated with Globe Telecom through its parent investment entity, BEAM maintains independence from major Philippine broadcast networks such as ABS-CBN and [GMA Network](/page/GMA Network), allowing autonomous content distribution and strategic partnerships without direct network control.[1] Prior collaborations, including a discontinued joint venture with ABS-CBN in 2023, underscore BEAM's flexibility in forming alliances while preserving its standalone status.[11] BEAM's financial structure relies predominantly on advertising revenues and content syndication partnerships, supporting its expansion into multi-channel digital platforms without reliance on major network funding.[6] This model has enabled steady growth in coverage to regions including Cebu, Davao, Baguio, Naga, Iloilo, and Zamboanga, with investments in digital infrastructure driving operational sustainability as of 2025.[1]Transmitter and studio facilities
The transmitter facilities for DWKC-DTV are situated at Palos Verdes Subdivision along Sumulong Highway in Barangay Santa Cruz, Antipolo City, Rizal province, at coordinates 14°36′37.4″N 121°9′25.4″E and an elevation of approximately 172 meters above sea level.[1][12] This site supports the station's digital terrestrial broadcasting operations, leveraging the elevated terrain for signal propagation. Studio facilities are based at the 3rd floor of Globe Telecom Plaza 1, at the corner of Pioneer and Madison Streets in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, equipped for production of digital video content including live programming, news inserts, and subchannel feeds.[1] These studios enable multi-camera setups and post-production workflows tailored to ISDB-T standards, facilitating 24/7 content generation for the main channel and affiliates. Following the station's analog signal shutdown in 2022, DWKC-DTV underwent equipment upgrades to enhance ISDB-T compatibility, including the installation of Powerlite antenna systems, multiplexers for subchannel management, and associated filters and transmission lines at the Antipolo site.[6] These improvements, part of a broader network expansion, support layered digital broadcasting with multiple subchannels. The station operates with an effective radiated power (ERP) of 865 kW, backed by redundant power systems including diesel generators to ensure operational reliability during outages.[13] In 2025, BEAM conducted maintenance and site expansions at the Antipolo transmitter, incorporating additional redundancy measures and antenna reinforcements to maintain uninterrupted 24/7 digital operations amid nationwide rollout goals.[6]Programming
Main channel content and schedule
PRTV Prime Media serves as the primary feed on DWKC-DTV's 31.1 subchannel, offering a blend of news, entertainment, and lifestyle programming tailored for prime-time viewers in Metro Manila and surrounding regions. PRTV Prime Media, operated by Philippine Collective Media Corporation (a subsidiary of Prime Media Holdings Inc.), began broadcasting on DWKC-DTV in 2024, utilizing content from a 2023 joint venture with ABS-CBN Corporation.[14] The channel emphasizes public service-oriented content, including current affairs, consumer advice, and light-hearted features to engage urban audiences seeking informative yet accessible viewing options.[15][16] The daily broadcast schedule operates from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays, extending to later hours on weekends to accommodate additional blocks of infomercials, feature films, and original local productions. Weekday mornings feature news and public service segments, such as early updates on national events and consumer tips, transitioning to afternoon lifestyle shows focused on legal advice, health, and family matters. Evenings highlight prime-time news bulletins followed by entertainment segments covering showbiz and human interest stories, with weekends incorporating extended movie airings and specialized lifestyle content like travel features.[16] Key programs include morning news anchors like Gising Pilipinas for daily updates, TeleRadyo Serbisyo Balita for in-depth reporting, and Hello Attorney for legal consultations, alongside evening staples such as TV Patrol for comprehensive news coverage and Showbiz Sidelines for entertainment news. Imported series and local originals, including business-oriented updates similar to Bilyonaryo-style segments, fill prime slots, with infomercial blocks during off-peak hours. In 2025, the main feed maintained its core lineup while introducing minor enhancements to original news and lifestyle productions to boost viewer engagement.[15] This format represents an evolution from DWKC-DTV's earlier reliance on block-time international entertainment and shopping channels in the 2010s to a more localized, service-driven prime media emphasis under BEAM TV's operations since the digital transition. The channel targets middle-class urban households in Metro Manila, prioritizing relatable content that combines hard news with practical lifestyle advice, though specific ratings data for 2025 remains limited in public reports.[15]Digital subchannels and their focus
DWKC-DTV's digital multiplex features several subchannels, each offering specialized programming to complement the main channel's general entertainment focus. As of November 2025, the lineup includes the following active subchannels, all broadcast in 480i SDTV resolution to ensure compatibility with standard digital receivers.[1] The second subchannel, 31.2 UFC TV, launched in September 2025 in partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, replacing the previous Blast Sports programming. It dedicates its schedule to live and replayed MMA fights, fighter profiles, training documentaries, and expert sports analysis, aiming to attract combat sports enthusiasts with round-the-clock coverage of UFC events.[17] Subchannel 31.3 is home to Knowledge Channel, which has operated 24/7 since its integration into the DWKC-DTV multiplex in 2022. This educational service targets youth audiences with curriculum-aligned content, including animated lessons, science experiments, language tutorials, and interactive learning segments designed to support K-12 education in the Philippines.[18] Subchannel 31.4 is currently reserved for future programming. Subchannel 31.5 is home to Bilyonaryo News Channel, which provides dedicated business and finance news, drawing from the main channel's resources for seamless integration. Launched as a subchannel to expand economic reporting, it features market updates, investment advice, corporate interviews, and policy analyses, broadcasting live during trading hours and reruns of key segments throughout the day.[19] Subchannel 31.6 hosts D8TV, added to the lineup in 2023, focusing on entertainment and music programming. It airs music videos, celebrity interviews, lifestyle shows, and light-hearted variety content, often featuring emerging Filipino artists and interactive viewer polls to engage younger demographics.[1]Digital broadcasting
Transition timeline and milestones
The transition to digital broadcasting for DWKC-DTV began in 2014, when Broadcast Enterprises and Affiliated Media, Inc. (BEAM TV) started preparing for ISDB-T digital transmissions alongside its analog signal on UHF Channel 31 in Metro Manila, marking an early step in the Philippines' adoption of the Japanese-developed standard. Initial digital transmissions were on UHF channel 32 from 2014 to 2020, shifting to channel 50 in 2020, and finally to channel 31 after the analog shutdown. This pilot phase allowed BEAM TV to upgrade infrastructure for digital readiness, including the acquisition of new equipment to support both formats during the coexistence period.[20] Key milestones included subchannel pilots in 2017, where BEAM TV experimented with multiplexed digital subchannels to expand programming capacity beyond the main feed, testing formats like educational and entertainment content to prepare for full digital operations. The station achieved full analog shutdown on December 31, 2021, transitioning to 100% digital broadcasting by January 1, 2022, ahead of the national timeline and enabling multiple subchannels on UHF 31. This move aligned with the Philippines' broader analog switch-off deadline, initially set for 2022 by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) but extended to 2023 by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to ensure 95% household adoption of digital receivers. Government incentives, such as subsidies for set-top boxes and financial assistance for broadcasters, facilitated the migration, with the DICT providing support to lower equipment costs and promote ISDB-T compatibility nationwide.[21][22][23] Challenges during the transition encompassed spectrum allocation disputes and high equipment costs, as broadcasters like BEAM TV navigated limited UHF frequencies amid competing demands from mobile services and other media entities. These issues were largely resolved by 2023 through NTC-mediated reallocations and international aid from Japan, which supplied technical expertise and funding for ISDB-T implementation. As a post-transition enhancement in 2025, BEAM TV replaced its Blast Sports subchannel (31.2) with UFC TV on September 1, dedicating the slot to Ultimate Fighting Championship content to leverage digital multiplexing for sports programming growth.[24]Technical specifications and standards
DWKC-DTV transmits on ultra high frequency (UHF) channel 31, centered at 575.143 MHz, employing the Integrated Services Digital Broadcasting - Terrestrial (ISDB-T) standard with a 6 MHz channel bandwidth as mandated by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for digital terrestrial television broadcasting in the Philippines.[24] The station's video format supports standard definition television (SDTV) at up to 480 lines in a 16:9 aspect ratio, compatible with MPEG-2 video compression as per ISDB-T standards, while audio is delivered via AC-3 (Dolby Digital) coding to support multichannel sound.[24] This configuration aligns with ISDB-T's support for SDTV resolutions up to 480 lines and compatible audio schemes like AC-3, ensuring compatibility with existing consumer equipment during the digital transition.[24] ISDB-T multiplexing enables DWKC-DTV to carry up to six subchannels within the 6 MHz bandwidth, with typical bitrate allocations of approximately 3 Mbps per SD channel to optimize data distribution for video, audio, and ancillary services.[24] The transmission employs 64-QAM modulation in its layered structure, facilitating hierarchical modulation for robust signal delivery across fixed, mobile, and portable reception scenarios.[24] DWKC-DTV transmits using a panel array antenna system that enhances directional coverage from its transmitter site.[25] The setup complies with NTC regulations and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recommendations for digital broadcasting, including integration of the Emergency Warning Broadcast System (EWBS) for public alerts via audible tones and overlaid data during emergencies.[24]Coverage and affiliations
Primary and secondary reception areas
DWKC-DTV's primary reception area centers on Metro Manila (National Capital Region), encompassing major urban centers such as Manila, Quezon City, and Makati, where the signal delivers robust over-the-air performance suitable for indoor antennas.[1] The station's transmitter, situated in Antipolo City, Rizal, at Palos Verdes Subdivision along Sumulong Highway, enables this coverage, though local terrain variations and high urban density can influence signal propagation, particularly in elevated or obstructed locations.[1] As of late 2024, digital TV penetration reaches approximately 80% of television households in Mega Manila, with accessible stations like DWKC-DTV contributing to this strong household adoption amid the region's demographics of over 13 million residents in predominantly urban settings.[26] Secondary reception areas extend to fringes of adjacent provinces including portions of Cavite, Bulacan, Laguna, and Rizal, where the signal remains receivable with outdoor antennas or in less obstructed environments.[6]Network affiliations and relay stations
DWKC-DTV, as the flagship station of Broadcast Enterprises and Affiliated Media, Inc. (BEAM TV), extends its signal through a network of owned relay stations across key provincial areas in the Philippines, simulcasting the primary channel and select digital subchannels from Metro Manila. These relays primarily serve to broaden BEAM TV's footprint beyond the capital region, focusing on independent operations rather than formal affiliations with major broadcast networks like ABS-CBN or GMA Network.[6] While BEAM TV engages in occasional content-sharing arrangements with local broadcasters for regional programming, its structure emphasizes direct control over relay facilities to ensure consistent delivery of Manila-originated content, including news, entertainment, and educational feeds. This approach allows for targeted extensions into underserved markets without the complexities of a centralized network hierarchy.[6] The relay network significantly enhances coverage in secondary reception areas such as Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and major Visayas and Mindanao cities. Active relay stations, all operating in digital format as part of the ongoing transition to digital terrestrial television with full analog switch-off scheduled for 2025, include the following key outlets:| Station | Location | Channel | Launch Year (as BEAM relay) |
|---|---|---|---|
| DWHB-DTV | Baguio City | 26 | 2011 |
| DWHC-DTV | Naga City | 32 | 2011 |
| DYRM-DTV | Iloilo City | 26 | 2011 |
| DYCT-DTV | Cebu City | 31 | 2011 |
| DXKC-DTV | Davao City | 31 | 2011 |
| DXBE-DTV | Zamboanga City | 31 | 2011 |
| DYXY-DTV | Tacloban City | 32 | 2011 |
| DZRC-DTV | Legazpi City | 31 | 2025 |
| DXAH-DTV | General Santos City | 51 | 2025 |