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DWYS (101.1 FM), broadcasting as 101.1 Yes FM, is a radio station owned and operated by MBC Media Group through its licensee Pacific Broadcasting System. It serves as the flagship station of the Yes FM Network.[1] The station's studio is located at the second floor, MMG Building, Star City, V. Sotto St., CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay, and its transmitter is located at the BSA Twin Towers, Bank Drive, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong,[2] sharing the same site with sister stations 90.7 Love Radio and 96.3 Easy Rock.

Key Information

As of Q4 2022, 101.1 Yes FM is the 4th-most-listened-to FM radio station in Metro Manila, based on a survey commissioned by Kantar Media Philippines and Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.

History

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1968–1985: DZFX

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The station first went on the air on May 31, 1968 under the call letters DZFX. The country's first stereo-multiplex FM radio station, it was under the ownership of Makati Broadcasting Network Corporation, owned by businessmen Tony and Bob Garcia and Adolfo Duarte. It played classical music and "elevator music" and non-commercial station 98.7 DZFE was its only competitor. On October 11, 1985, a few minutes before 12 noon, it bade goodbye with a Mozart piece.

1985–1989: Kiss FM

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Shortly after DZFX 101.1's sign off on October 11, 1985, it was rebranded as Kiss FM 101.1 (call letters DWKS) with studios located at 14th floor of Insular Life Building at Ayala Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas, Makati, with "Dancing in the Streets" by Mick Jagger and David Bowie, as its first song played on the station. It introduced innovations like having the frequency number on its telephone number, programs like Top 20 at 12 and the launch date as 10–11, standing as the frequency. From 1985, it had the Contemporary Hit Radio format, competing directly with 99.5 RT (now 99.5 XFM Manila) and 97.1 WLS-FM (now Barangay LS 97.1). Singer Martin Nievera also worked with the station under his sobriquet "Mad Man" and had his program every Saturday afternoons.

1989–1995: Kiss Jazz

[edit]

It changed its name to Kiss Jazz 101.1 and transformed into a smooth jazz format from June 1989 to December 1995 competing directly with Citylite 88.3 (now Jam 88.3) before it quietly went off the air.

1995–1998: Showbiz Tsismis

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On December 18, 1995, Manila Broadcasting Company acquired 101.1 FM from Makati Broadcasting Network, launching 101.1 Showbiz Tsismis, the country's first FM station to blend show business gossip with music. Operating under the call sign DWST, which stood for "Showbiz Tsismis" (Showbiz Gossip), the station moved its studio to the FJE Building in Legazpi Village, Makati, integrating them with the existing DZRH facilities

101.1 Showbiz Tsismis distinguished itself by incorporating show business news reports delivered by reporters in a style similar to AM stations. It is also made history by being the first Philippine radio station to simulcast its programming via satellite.[3][4]

1998–present: Yes! FM/Yes! The Best

[edit]

On December 6, 1998, 101.1 was re-launched as Yes! FM 101.1 with new call letters DWYS. Shifting to a mass-based format, similar to its sister station 90.7 Love Radio it quickly became the undisputed number 1 FM station from 1999 to 2002.[5]

In July 2002, all Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) stations relocated from the FJE Building in Makati to the Star City Complex in Pasay, Philippines.

In 2008, Yes! FM 101.1 underwent another repackaging, adopting the slogan "Automatic 'Yan!" (It's Automatic!). While its playlist closely mirrored that of 90.7 Love Radio, its overall programming maintained a distinct identity.

As part of the "Radyo? Dalawa Lang Yan!" (transl. Radio? There's Only Two!) campaign, launched by Yes! FM and Love Radio in early 2011, a significant DJ reshuffle occurred in 2012. Several DJs from 90.7 Love Radio including Rica Herra, Missy Hista, Rico Pañero and Lala Banderas moved to Yes! FM 101.1. In exchange, Diego Bandido, Emma Harot, Kristine Dera and Robin Sienna transferred to Love Radio. This shift also coincided with Yes! FM 101.1's new "Hayahay" branding, a slogan that was subsequently adopted by other Yes! FM, Hot FM, and Love Radio stations.

In 2014, Yes! FM was awarded the Gawad Tanglaw Hall of Fame award, having been awarded as the Best FM Station for five consecutive years.

Since 2015, Yes! FM has integrated "Hayahay" quotes, often based on one-peso scenarios, into its on-air banters. For example, a common quote is: "Kung Piso lang sana ang hot meals sa Cebu Pacific... Ay! Hayahay ang Buhay!" (If only hot meals on Cebu Pacific were just one peso... Oh! Life is easy/comfortable!).

On July 18, 2016, at 6:00 AM, the station rebranded as 101.1 Yes! The Best, adopting the new slogan, "The Millennials' Choice." This change also marked the removal of its Sunday playlist and shift in DJ on-air delivery, with hosts now speaking a mix of English and Tagalog, a departure from its sister station's style.[6]

On May 1, 2017, 101.1 Yes! The Best launched the Yes! The Best App, a pioneering mobile application that introduced the first social TV experience for FM radio in the Philippines. Concurrently, all provincial Yes! FM stations were also rebranded as Yes! The Best.[7]

On August 10, 2018, Yes! The Best Manila's YouTube channel was awarded a Silver Play Button for surpassing 100,000 subscribers. As of May 2025, the channel boasts over 600,000 subscribers and continues to grow, offering a diverse range of content including vlogs, dance challenges, and radio show segments.

The station introduced a new DJ, Mega Wanda, on October 1, 2018. However, Ganda Wanda resigned and left the station on October 26, 2018. Following this, Mega Wanda continued solo, adopting Ganda Wanda as her new on-air name.

On December 8, 2018, the station marked its 20th anniversary. To commemorate the milestone, its YouTube channel uploaded a thanksgiving video celebrating two decades of broadcasting.

On October 2, 2019, a major fire originating from the nearby Star City theme park affected the main studios of 101.1 Yes the Best and its sister MBC radio stations at the MBC Building, CCP Complex in Pasay. In interim, Yes! The Best currently broadcasts from its backup studio in BSA Twin Towers, where its transmitter is located.[8]

After a two year hiatus, on November 15, 2021, Yes! The Best Manila, along with its sister stations Love Radio Manila and Easy Rock Manila, returned to the newly renovated MBC Building within the Star City complex which was still undergoing rehabilitation and reconstruction. On the same day, MBC relaunched its new corporate slogan, Sama-Sama Tayo, Pilipino! (lit. transl. We're all together, Filipinos!) accompanied by updated logos of all MBC radio stations.[9]

On February 5, 2024, Yes! The Best Manila and its provincial counterparts reverted to their original branding as Yes! FM. This change coincided with the rebranding of their parent company, Manila Broadcasting Company, to MBC Media Group the following day.

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

DWYS

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from Grokipedia
DWYS (101.1 FM), broadcasting as 101.1 Yes FM, is a radio station in Metro Manila, Philippines, owned and operated by the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) through its subsidiary Pacific Broadcasting System. The station's studio is located at the MBC Media Group Building in Star City, Pasay, while its transmitter is situated at the BSA Twin Towers in Mandaluyong. It serves as the flagship of the Yes FM network, which includes 12 originating and 4 relay stations across the Philippines, and operates in FM stereo with HD Radio capability. Launched on May 31, 1968, as DZFX, the station has undergone several format changes and rebrandings, including Kiss FM in 1985, Yes! FM in 1998, Yes! The Best from 2016 to 2024, and a reversion to Yes FM on February 5, 2024. Its programming focuses on contemporary middle-of-the-road (MOR) music, emphasizing Original Pilipino Music (OPM), with a mix of pop, rock, and talk shows targeting young adults. As of 2025, Yes FM maintains a strong digital presence, including a YouTube channel with over 600,000 subscribers.

Overview

Station profile

DWYS (101.1 FM), broadcasting as 101.1 Yes FM since its reversion on February 5, 2024, is a radio station licensed to , , serving the broadcast area. The station operates in a Contemporary Middle of the Road () format, emphasizing Original Pilipino Music (OPM) alongside adult contemporary hits. Owned by through licensee Pacific Broadcasting System, it maintains a transmitter power of 25,000 watts and an () of 75,000 watts. The station first signed on the air on May 31, 1968, originally as DZFX, marking it as the ' inaugural stereo-multiplex FM outlet. As of Q4 2022 Kantar Media data, DWYS ranked as the 4th-most-listened-to FM station in , a position underscoring its ongoing relevance in the market; as of Q1 2025, it ranked #2.

Technical specifications

The studios of DWYS are located at the MBC Building in Star City, Vicente Sotto Street, Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, Pasay City, while the transmitter is positioned atop the BSA Twin Towers in Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City. This setup enables coverage across Mega Manila and surrounding areas with a maximum effective radiated power of 75 kW. DWYS operates on 101.1 MHz in the FM band, supporting stereo broadcasting as standard for commercial FM stations in the Philippines. The signal includes Radio Data System (RDS) functionality displaying "101.1YES," allowing receivers to show station identification and program information. Additionally, the station provides digital webcasting through its official website and aggregator platforms such as TuneIn, enabling global online listening. The station's origins trace to May 31, 1968, when it launched as DZFX, becoming the Philippines' first FM radio station with an initial stereo-multiplex configuration for enhanced audio quality. This pioneering setup used multiplex technology to transmit stereo signals over the FM band, setting a technical benchmark for subsequent broadcasters. On October 2, 2019, a major fire originating from the adjacent Star City amusement park damaged the MBC Building, impacting studio facilities but not interrupting DWYS's over-the-air or online broadcasts, as operations were temporarily relocated to maintain continuity. The affected building underwent extensive renovation, with DWYS and sister MBC stations returning to the fully restored site on November 15, 2021, incorporating updated engineering infrastructure for improved reliability.

History

1968–1985: DZFX era

DZFX 101.1 FM was launched on May 31, 1968, as one of the first stereo-multiplex FM stations in the , marking a pioneering effort in high-fidelity . Operated initially by the Broadcasting Network Corporation, the station introduced advanced stereo technology to cater to a growing audience interested in premium audio experiences. The format centered on and , designed specifically for upscale listeners in who sought refined, background programming. Broadcasts originated from studios and a transmitter at the Insular Life Building in , emphasizing quality sound over commercial interruptions to appeal to affluent households and offices. This niche approach positioned DZFX as a cultural outlet during an era when AM radio dominated Philippine airwaves. Ownership remained with early broadcasters under the Broadcasting Network Corporation throughout the period, prior to involvement from larger networks like the Manila Broadcasting Company. The station's operations reflected the slow adoption of FM technology in the country, focusing on conceptual elegance rather than mass appeal. The DZFX era concluded on October 11, 1985, with a formal sign-off, paving the way for a shift to more contemporary programming formats.

1985–1989: Kiss FM launch

On October 11, 1985, following a brief five-second silence after the sign-off of its predecessor DZFX, the station relaunched as Kiss FM 101.1 under the call letters DWKS, adopting a (CHR) format focused on . This rebranding marked a significant departure from the programming of the prior era, introducing a vibrant mix of contemporary pop and rock tracks to appeal to a broader, youth-oriented audience in . The new format emphasized high-energy delivery, with jingles and promotions that incorporated the station's frequency—such as telephone numbers ending in 1011—and tied the launch date (10-11) to its dial position for memorable branding. The programming innovations under Kiss FM included daily countdown shows like "Top 20 at 12," which aired popular songs at noon, fostering listener engagement through requests and dedications. Notable on-air talent featured , a rising singer who hosted a Saturday afternoon program from 2 to 4 p.m. as "Mad Man Martin," where he popularized phrases like "Kiss Kiss" and blended music with light-hearted commentary to energize the midday slot. This high-octane approach, combined with the station's relocation to studios on the 14th floor of the Building in , quickly positioned Kiss FM as a competitive force against established outlets like 99.5 RT and 97.1 WLS-FM, driving initial commercial success through increased advertiser interest and audience share among younger demographics. By the late , Kiss FM had solidified its reputation for dynamic, youth-targeted , but the era concluded in June 1989 with a strategic pivot to a more specialized format amid evolving market demands.

1989–1995: Kiss Jazz transition

In June 1989, DWKS shifted from its contemporary hit radio format under the Kiss FM branding to a specialized smooth jazz presentation, rebranding as Kiss Jazz 101.1. This transition sought to capture an adult contemporary demographic in , emphasizing instrumental tracks and performances from established international artists to appeal to affluent, urban professionals. The move positioned the station as a refined alternative amid the evolving FM landscape, drawing on the popularity of similar niche formats emerging in the late . Programming during this period centered on uninterrupted jazz sets, often lasting 30 to , interspersed with minimal announcements to preserve the genre's mellow ambiance. Local Filipino jazz musicians received limited airtime, with the focus primarily on global catalog material to cultivate an upscale, cosmopolitan image; promotional efforts highlighted the station's appeal to Manila's "jet-set" crowd through print ads in major dailies. While it initially garnered a dedicated following among A- and B-class listeners, Kiss Jazz competed directly with emerging rivals like Citylite 88.3, which offered comparable easy-listening content. By the mid-1990s, however, struggled with waning audience engagement as broader pop and talk-oriented stations regained dominance in the market. Listenership declined steadily, prompting the station to cease broadcasts in December 1995 after over six years of operation. This off-air status facilitated the sale of the 101.1 MHz frequency to the Manila Broadcasting Company, concluding the Kiss Jazz phase.

1995–1998: Showbiz Tsismis phase

On December 18, 1995, the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) acquired the 101.1 MHz FM frequency from the Broadcasting Network, which had previously operated it as DWKS-FM under a format. The acquisition marked MBC's expansion into the FM band in , allowing the company to diversify its portfolio beyond its established AM stations like . Following the purchase, MBC relaunched the station as DWST-FM, branded as 101.1 Showbiz Tsismis, introducing the Philippines' first FM-based gossip and satellite simulcast format. This pivot shifted the programming from niche jazz to a dynamic mix centered on celebrity news, showbiz gossip, and entertainment talk segments, designed to capture a broader audience interested in the burgeoning Philippine entertainment scene. The format incorporated syndicated content for regional affiliates, enabling simultaneous broadcasts across MBC's network and enhancing national reach through satellite technology. The Showbiz Tsismis era addressed the limited appeal of its predecessor's specialized focus by emphasizing relatable, timely updates on stars and industry happenings, fostering listener engagement through interactive talk elements. This phase concluded in late 1998, paving the way for a toward contemporary music programming.

1998–present: Yes! FM and

On December 6, 1998, the station was re-launched as Yes! FM under the call letters DWYS, shifting to a mass-appeal format emphasizing Original Pilipino Music (OPM) and contemporary pop hits to attract a broader audience of fun-loving . This change marked a departure from its previous showbiz phase, positioning Yes! FM as a vibrant, upbeat alternative in Manila's FM landscape. In 2012, Yes! FM underwent a significant DJ reshuffle as part of Manila Broadcasting Company's internal adjustments across its network, including crossovers from sister station to refresh the on-air lineup and maintain competitive energy. The station continued to evolve, launching the Yes! The Best on May 1, 2017, which pioneered interactive features like live social TV experiences for FM radio listeners in the . On July 18, 2016, Yes! FM rebranded as Yes! The Best, adopting the slogan "The ' Choice" to target younger demographics with a mix of hot adult contemporary tracks and millennial-focused content. This iteration emphasized digital integration and youthful appeal while retaining core OPM and pop elements. However, on February 5, 2024, the station reverted to its original Yes! FM branding, aligning with the parent company's rebranding to and a renewed focus on inclusive, nationwide Filipino . A major setback occurred on October 2, 2019, when a massive fire originating from the adjacent Star City amusement park gutted the MBC Building in Pasay City, severely damaging the studios of Yes! The Best and its sister stations. The blaze caused an estimated P1 billion in total damage and forced temporary relocation of operations, though no casualties were reported among staff. After renovations, the studios returned to the rebuilt MBC Building on November 15, 2021, enabling on-site broadcasting for Yes! The Best alongside Love Radio and Easy Rock. By 2025, Yes! FM has sustained its relevance through robust digital expansions, including 24/7 on its official website and app, alongside active social media engagement on platforms like and to interact with listeners via contests, behind-the-scenes content, and real-time feedback. These efforts have helped the station bridge traditional radio with online audiences, fostering community involvement in events and music requests.

Ownership and operations

Ownership timeline

DWYS began broadcasting in 1968 under the ownership of independent local broadcasters operating through the Broadcasting Network Corporation, which was controlled by Filipino businessmen including Tony Garcia, Bob Garcia, and Adolfo Duarte. This entity managed the station through various format changes, including its early years as DZFX and later as Kiss FM and Kiss Jazz, until the mid-1990s. On December 18, 1995, the Broadcasting Company (MBC) acquired the 101.1 FM frequency from the Makati Broadcasting Network, integrating it into its network via its wholly owned subsidiary, the Pacific Broadcasting System. This acquisition marked a significant expansion for MBC, allowing it to bolster its FM presence in with a focus on entertainment-oriented programming. Under MBC's control, the station underwent key format shifts influenced by corporate strategy, such as the 1998 rebranding from Showbiz Tsismis to Yes! FM, which aimed to capture a broader audience with content. By 2024, MBC had restructured and as the MBC Media Group, maintaining operational control of DWYS through the Pacific Broadcasting System as its licensee; this evolution continued into 2025 without changes to the station's ownership.

Facilities and infrastructure

DWYS operates from studios located on the second floor of the MMG Building (also known as the MBC Building) within the Star City complex at Vicente Sotto Street, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. This facility serves as the central hub for production and broadcasting for the station and its sister outlets under the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC). The evolution of the station's studios traces back to its origins as DZFX in 1968, when operations began from the Insular Life Building in Makati. Following the MBC acquisition in 1995, studios relocated and consolidated at the MMG Building in Pasay by the late 1990s, reflecting MBC's commitment to modernizing infrastructure in a key media district adjacent to Manila Bay. Ownership under MBC Media Group has funded these transitions to enhance operational efficiency. The station's transmitter is situated atop the BSA Twin Towers in Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, facilitating wide coverage across Metro Manila and surrounding areas. Regular maintenance and upgrades at this site ensure signal reliability, with backup broadcasting capabilities integrated during disruptions to maintain continuity. A major fire on October 2, 2019, originating at the neighboring Star City amusement park, gutted much of the MMG Building, severely impacting DWYS and other MBC stations by damaging production equipment and forcing a temporary shift to remote operations. In the interim, broadcasts continued from the backup studio at the BSA Twin Towers. Renovations to restore and upgrade the fire-damaged facilities were completed by November 15, 2021, allowing DWYS to return to full on-site production with improved safety and technical features. Since 2017, DWYS has integrated digital tools to complement its traditional broadcasts, including app-based streaming via the official Yes FM mobile application, enabling listeners to access live audio and on-demand content across platforms. This enhancement supports MBC's broader digital strategy, allowing seamless integration with online and for extended reach.

Programming and format

Evolution of musical focus

DWYS began its broadcasting journey in 1968 as DZFX, initially emphasizing to cater to an educated, niche audience in . This format persisted through the 1970s and early 1980s, aligning with the station's origins under the Philippine Broadcasting Corporation, which prioritized sophisticated programming amid the limited FM landscape of the time. In 1985, the station underwent a significant transformation with the launch of Kiss FM on October 11, shifting to a (CHR) format featuring new wave and , marking one of the first all-new wave stations in the and appealing to a younger, urban demographic. This change reflected the growing popularity of Western-influenced pop and rock amid the post-Martial Law cultural liberalization. By 1989, Kiss FM rebranded to Kiss Jazz, adopting a and adult contemporary sound targeting upper-class listeners with R&B, , and light house tracks, positioning itself as Manila's premier outlet in competition with stations like Citylite 88.3. The mid-1990s brought another pivot in December 1995, when the station became 101.1 Showbiz Tsismis under new ownership by MBC, blending pop music hits with showbiz gossip and entertainment news in a format that mimicked lively AM talk styles to broaden its mass appeal. This hybrid approach lasted until 1998, emphasizing celebrity-driven content alongside current pop tracks to capture the entertainment-obsessed Filipino audience during the era's booming show business scene. On December 6, 1998, DWYS relaunched as Yes! FM, transitioning to a mass-based hot adult contemporary (Hot AC) format with a strong integration of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), alongside international pop and hits, similar to its 90.7 . This shift prioritized accessible, feel-good music for the working-class majority, quickly establishing dominance in ratings from 1999 to 2002 by focusing on romantic ballads and upbeat OPM tracks that resonated with everyday listeners. Post-1998, OPM became a , with playlists featuring local artists like and to foster national pride and cultural relevance. In July 2016, Yes! FM rebranded to 101.1 Yes The Best, refining its focus toward millennial pop and contemporary hits while retaining Hot AC elements, introducing a fresher with EDM-infused tracks, viral pop, and youth-oriented OPM to adapt to digital streaming trends and younger demographics. This rebrand maintained the station's commitment to local music but incorporated global millennial influences like crossovers and electronic pop remixes. On February 5, 2024, the station reverted to the Yes! FM branding, continuing its contemporary middle-of-the-road () format with emphasis on OPM and adult contemporary hits. By November 2025, DWYS's musical focus as Yes! FM has matured into a mix of , mainstream pop, and prominent local OPM, with automated playlists during off-peak hours to ensure consistent delivery of nostalgic 2000s-2010s tracks alongside current chart-toppers. This adaptation to listener trends emphasizes variety—balancing evergreen OPM anthems with international adult contemporary—to sustain broad appeal in a competitive FM market dominated by digital alternatives.

Daily schedule structure

The daily schedule of DWYS, broadcasting as 101.1 Yes! FM, follows a structured lineup designed to cater to listeners' routines with a mix of live-hosted shows and automated music blocks, emphasizing adult contemporary and OPM (Original Pilipino Music) content. On weekdays, the programming begins with the morning drive slot from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, featuring the live show Cute Morning! hosted by Rico Panyero and Marsian, which includes upbeat music, listener interactions, and light-hearted discussions to energize commuters. This transitions into the midday chill block from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN with Chillax 101, led by DJ Sexy Megan, focusing on relaxed tracks and casual vibes for mid-morning audiences. Afternoon slots continue the live format, with My Intimate Love & Fantasies from 12:00 NN to 3:00 PM hosted by Maria Morena, offering romantic and sensual music selections, followed by Lyka Barista Moments from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM with Lyka Barista delivering feel-good pop and lifestyle segments. Evening programming includes Chika ni Wanda from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, where Ganda Wanda shares gossip and news, and BB Time from 9:00 PM to 12:00 MN with Biboy Bibo curating late-night hits. The overnight period from 12:00 MN to 6:00 AM shifts to music , featuring pre-recorded playlists without live DJs to maintain continuous playback. This integration of live elements during peak hours and at night ensures a balance between engaging personalities and seamless music flow. Weekend variations adjust for leisure listening, with Saturdays starting at 6:00 AM with a regular playlist hosted by Sexy Megan until 9:00 AM, followed by Stick to Juan—an all-OPM dedicated block—until 10:00 AM. From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, rotating DJs including Maria Morena and Biboy Bibo take over for themed mixes, after which music resumes from 6:00 PM through to morning. Sundays feature a rewind theme early, with Yes FM Rewind at 6:00 AM hosted by Rico Panyero and Marsian, evoking classic tracks until 9:00 AM, then Bida Nobenta for all-90s music until 10:00 AM. Lyka Barista and Ganda Wanda handle the 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM slot with interactive segments, before music from 6:00 PM onward provides a relaxed wind-down. These weekend structures prioritize nostalgic and genre-specific content over weekday drive-time intensity. Special segments enhance the schedule during holidays, such as the live New Year's Eve broadcast on December 31, 2024, which extended programming with countdown festivities, guest appearances, and festive music to ring in 2025, deviating from regular for heightened engagement. Overall, the schedule blends live DJ-driven shows for daytime energy with pre-recorded for off-peak reliability, adapting minimally for weekends and events to maintain listener loyalty.

On-air staff

Current personalities

Rico Panyero serves as the primary morning host on 101.1 Yes! FM (DWYS), leading the "Cute Morning" program weekdays from 6:00 AM, where he provides energetic wake-up segments infused with humor and listener interactions. He is also the voice behind Marsian, the station's iconic character, which adds a playful, satirical element to broadcasts through comedic skits and commentary on current events. Panyero's style emphasizes relatable storytelling and community engagement, often extending to live streams that boost listener participation. Sexy Megan, known on-air as DJ Megan, anchors the midday "Chillax 101" slot from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN on weekdays, delivering a mix of relaxed music, chismis (), and light-hearted advice segments titled "MEGANdang Tanghali." Her broadcasts focus on empowering listeners through fun, flirtatious banter and lifestyle tips, maintaining a vibrant presence across platforms. In the afternoon drive, Maria Morena hosts from 12:00 NN to 3:00 PM, featuring the interactive show ": My Intimate Love & Fantasies," which explores romantic and personal anecdotes with a bold, confessional tone. Lyka Barista follows in the 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM window with "Lyka Barista Moments," blending contemporary hits, humor, and themed storytelling that often ties into daily listener submissions. These slots align with the station's weekday schedule, providing seamless transitions in musical and talk content. Ganda Wanda takes the Sunday 10:00 AM slot, co-hosting "Chika Ni " with a focus on weekend news and feel-good vibes. Biboy Bibo contributes across various programs, including the collaborative "GANDAng GaBIBOY!" segments with Ganda Wanda and solo "Biboy Bibo Confessions" features that delve into humorous personal tales and audience confessions. His versatile role supports fill-in duties and special events throughout the week. In 2025, these personalities have amplified their reach through social media tie-ins, including live Instagram and Facebook sessions that garner thousands of interactions per episode. A highlight was the Halloween specials in late October, where DJs like Sexy Megan, Lyka Barista, and Rico Panyero donned elaborate costumes—such as zombies and ghosts—to create spooky on-air skits and fan challenges, with Lyka Barista winning an internal costume contest for her "Walking Dead" ensemble. These events, promoted via the station's YouTube channel and website, extended to off-air meet-and-greets, like the October 11 KOLab fan gathering at Market! Market! in Taguig, fostering direct engagement with listeners.

Notable alumni

One of the most prominent alumni from DWYS's early years is , who hosted a Saturday afternoon radio show on the station during its Kiss FM phase in 1985. Nievera, leveraging his rising fame as a singer, used the platform to connect with listeners through music and entertainment segments, which helped solidify his status as a multifaceted entertainer; he later became known as the "Concert King" of the , hosting major TV shows like ASAP and releasing numerous hit albums. During the 1998–2016 "Yes! The Best" era, several DJs departed amid programming shifts and inter-station exchanges within the MBC Media Group network, gaining further prominence on rival outlets. In early 2011, as part of a talent swap with sister station 90.7 Love Radio, DJs Diego Bandido and Emma Harot transferred to , where Bandido continued as a key midday host known for his storytelling style and Harot built a reputation for energetic afternoon drives. This reshuffle, which extended into 2012 with additional adjustments to align with Yes FM's mass-appeal format, allowed these alumni to expand their careers; Bandido later earned recognition as a "Remarkable Male DJ" for his emotional on-air narratives across platforms. Similarly, Chico Loco (Mark Jimel Gales), who hosted the interactive Yes Diaries segment from the mid-2000s to 2016, left for 106.7 FM in 2017, rebranding as Kuya Chico and maintaining his signature humorous, community-focused style on news-talk formats. Post-2024, the station's list remains limited due to a stable on-air team and minimal turnover, reflecting Yes FM's consistent programming strategy amid shifts.

Recognition and digital presence

Awards received

In 2014, DWYS, then broadcasting as Yes! FM, received the Gawad Tanglaw Hall of Fame award in the radio category for its repeated recognition as the Best FM Station over five consecutive years, highlighting its significant contributions to entertainment and broadcasting. The station's digital extension has also garnered milestones, with its official YouTube channel, Yes FM Manila, achieving over 708,000 subscribers as of late 2025, demonstrating sustained growth in online engagement beyond traditional radio listenership. Ratings surveys further affirm DWYS's prominence, as it ranked second among FM stations in Mega Manila during the first quarter of 2025 according to Kantar Media data, sharing strong audience shares with leading competitors and reinforcing its status as a top entertainment outlet.

Online and social media impact

The Yes! FM mobile app was launched on May 1, 2017, introducing innovative features such as , interactive social TV elements, and on-demand content access for listeners beyond traditional FM radio. In 2025, the app received updates to enhance streaming capabilities. These enhancements have solidified the app's role in bridging broadcast and digital consumption, including access to its 10 regional stations. The station's YouTube channel has experienced steady growth, with content focusing on live broadcasts, DJ segments, and music highlights to engage younger audiences. A notable milestone was the 2024 New Year's Eve live broadcast, which captured the station's countdown festivities and garnered over 2,000 views, demonstrating its appeal for real-time event streaming. This expansion has helped extend Yes! FM's reach, amassing thousands of subscribers and views through consistent uploads of on-air moments and exclusive clips. On , Yes! FM maintains a robust presence on , where its official page boasts over 3.7 million likes and active engagement through daily posts, polls, and listener interactions as of November 2025. Similarly, the Instagram account (@yesfmmanila) leverages short-form videos and reels to connect with followers, exemplified by 2025 Halloween content featuring DJs in themed skits and spooky music challenges that boosted seasonal participation and shares. These platforms have been instrumental in fostering community, with tie-ins to podcasts derived from popular shows like DJ interviews and music discussions, contributing to subscriber milestones such as crossing key engagement thresholds in listener-driven content series.

References

  1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmsWMdAnFqg
  2. https://radio.org.ph/yes/
  3. https://zeno.fm/radio/yes-fm-manila-dwys/
  4. https://www.philstar.com/business/2008/10/07/405293/mbc-buys-radio-station-963-wrock-p2296m
  5. https://dxs.fandom.com/wiki/DWYS
  6. https://www.brigadanews.ph/brigada-news-fm-manila-surges-to-no-7-in-mega-manila-fm-rankings/
  7. https://www.yesfm.com.ph/post/yes-fm-2-fm-radio-station-sa-mega-manila-ayon-sa-kantar-media
  8. https://tunein.com/radio/Yes-The-Best-Manila-1011-s65783/
  9. https://www.yesfm.com.ph/
  10. https://signons-and-signoffs.fandom.com/wiki/DWYS-FM_101.1_Sign_On_and_Sign_Off
  11. https://hi-in.facebook.com/radyoiba/posts/may-31-1968-dzfx-fm-the-first-fm-radio-station-in-the-philippines-goes-on-air/388572234512498/
  12. https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/10/02/1956770/star-city-closed-over-christmas-after-fire-mbc-stations-continue-operations
  13. https://www.businesslist.ph/company/105504/1011-yes-fm
  14. https://en-academic.com/dic.nsf/enwiki/6929004
  15. https://prtv.fandom.com/wiki/DWYS
  16. https://www.facebook.com/groups/nostalgia.philippines/posts/10159443847571441/
  17. https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=pJUVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=IAsEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6596,3992606
  18. https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=k40mAAAAIBAJ&sjid=1AoEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5430,3084024
  19. https://www.scribd.com/document/369580329/MBC-history
  20. https://radyonatin.com/post.php/5804.4b58310bd773f9aa
  21. https://radioonlinenow.com/2017/10/14/manila-broadcasting-company-yes-the-best-101-1-dwss-fm-widen-social-media-reach/
  22. https://philippines.mom-gmr.org/en/owners/companies/detail/company/company/show/mbc-media-group-1/
  23. https://www.bworldonline.com/arts-and-leisure/2024/02/09/574533/manila-broadcasting-co-rebrands-as-mbc-media-group/
  24. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/10/02/19/star-city-fire-causes-p1-billion-in-damage-management-says-to-try-to-reopen-this-year
  25. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/241544-fire-star-city-complex-pasay-october-2019/
  26. https://www.tumblr.com/kuyarexdelsdiaries/670335369306341376
  27. https://www.yesfm.com.ph/page/contact-us
  28. https://mbcmediagroup.com/our-company/history
  29. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ph.com.yesfm.mobile
  30. https://signons-and-signoffs.fandom.com/wiki/DWYS-FM_YES%21_The_Best_101.1_MHz_Sign_On_and_Sign_Off
  31. https://www.facebook.com/groups/olmph/posts/1969063417212054/
  32. https://www.facebook.com/groups/olmphac/posts/914659500830468/
  33. https://fromthetube.wordpress.com/2016/09/19/yes-fm-rebrands-targets-millennials/
  34. https://radioly.app/radio/ph.dwys/
  35. https://prtv.fandom.com/wiki/FM_Radio_Stations_in_Metro_Manila
  36. https://tvradioschedules.fandom.com/wiki/101.1_Yes%21_FM_Manila_Program_Schedule
  37. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7BbeNU3u6M
  38. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/videos/cute-morning-with-rico-panyero-marsian-november-12-2025/712233281909608/
  39. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/videos/cute-morning-october-3-2025/2022024458597709/
  40. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/videos/cute-morning-with-rico-panyero-marsian-october-22-2025/1856387188572492/
  41. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/videos/megandang-tanghali-october-9-2025/4193364867605605/
  42. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/posts/ito-na-ang-chance-mong-ma-meet-si-dj-megan-yes-fm-at-ang-iba-pang-yespren-djs-sa/1248732500616923/
  43. https://www.facebook.com/DJMariaMorena/
  44. https://www.yesfm.com.ph/watch
  45. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtU1QPGqfoA
  46. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/videos/gandang-gabiboy-october-28-2025/839273478678618/
  47. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4RLiyNkB7Y
  48. https://www.instagram.com/djmariamorena/?hl=en
  49. https://www.yesfm.com.ph/tag/halloween-2025
  50. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/posts/1242000507956789/
  51. https://tvradioschedules.fandom.com/wiki/Martin_Nievera
  52. https://tv-philippines.fandom.com/wiki/DWYS
  53. https://logos.fandom.com/wiki/DWYS
  54. https://www.philstar.com/pilipino-star-ngayon/bansa/2014/01/11/1277569/mga-nagwagi-sa-ika-12-gawad-tanglaw
  55. https://www.speakrj.com/audit/top/youtube/ph/society
  56. https://www.yesfm.com.ph/tag/yes%21-fm-mobile-app
  57. https://www.facebook.com/yesfmmanila/
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