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List of television stations in Puerto Rico
List of television stations in Puerto Rico
List of television stations in Puerto Rico
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This is a list of broadcast television stations that are licensed in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

Full-Service stations

[edit]

VC refers to the station's PSIP virtual channel while RF refers to the station's physical RF channel.

Area served City of license VC RF Callsign Network Notes
Arecibo 54 35 WCCV-TV La Cadena del Milagro CDM SD on 54.2
Mayagüez 3 32 WIPM-TV PBS (WIPR-TV 6.1) PBS Kids on 3.3
4 31 WNJX-TV Independent (WAPA-TV 4.1) WAPA Deportes on 4.2, WAPA3 on 4.3, Telemundo on 2.12 (WKAQ-TV 2.1), Punto 2 on 2.22 (WKAQ-TV 2.2)
5 29 WORA-TV ABC DW on 5.2, 24 Horas on 5.3, Telecinco on 5.4
Mayagüez Aguadilla 12 12 WOLE-DT TeleOnce (WLII-DT 11.1) UniMás on 12.2, Visión Latina on 12.3
Mayagüez 14 20 WOST Infomercials Fox on 14.2 (WSJP-LD 30.2), OnTV4U on 14.3, EEE Network on 14.4, BeIN Sports Xtra on 14.5, BeIN Español on 14.6
Mayagüez Aguadilla 18 17 WVEO Mega TV (WTCV 18.1)
San Sebastián 24 33 WJWN-TV América Tevé (WJPX 24.1) WORO-DT on 13.1
Aguada 50 25 WQHA Cielo TV (WZNA-LD 3.1)
Ponce 4 14 WTIN-TV Independent (WAPA-TV 4.1) WAPA Deportes on 4.2, WAPA3 on 4.3, Telemundo on 2.11 (WKAQ-TV 2.1), Punto 2 on 2.21 (WKAQ-TV 2.2)
7 7 WSTE-DT Teleisla WIPR Simulcast on 7.2 (WIPR-TV 6.1)
9 9 WSUR-DT TeleOnce (WLII-DT 11.1) UniMás on 9.2
24 36 WKPV America Tevé (WJPX 24.1) SonLife on 42.1 (WIRS 17.3)
26 19 WQTO PBS (WMTJ 40.1) PBS Kids on 26.2
Ponce Yauco 17.3 17 WIRS Sonlife América Tevé on 42.1
Ponce 18 36 WVOZ-TV Mega TV (WTCV 18.1)
San Juan 2 28 WKAQ-TV Telemundo Punto 2 on 2.2, NBC on 2.3
4 27 WAPA-TV Independent WAPA Deportes on 4.2, WAPA3 on 4.3
San Juan Carolina 5 30 WRFB ABC (WORA-TV 5.1) DW on 5.2, 24 Horas on 5.3, Telecinco on 5.4
San Juan 6 26 WIPR-TV PBS PBS Kids on 6.3
San Juan Fajardo 8.8 16 WRUA Tiva TV Unico TV on 64.1 (WECN 64.1)
Naranjito 8.8 18 WECN Tiva TV (WRUA 8.8) Unico TV on 64.1
Caguas 11 11 WLII-DT TeleOnce UniMás on 11.2
Fajardo 13 13 WORO-DT TeleOro Canal 13 EWTN on 13.2, Shabum on 13.3, TeleOro on 38.1
San Juan 18 21 WTCV Mega TV
24 21 WJPX América TeVé SBN on 42.1 (WIRS 17.3)
San Juan Toa Baja 34 22 WELU CTNi (WSJN-CD 20.1)
Bayamón 36 24 WDWL Enlace EJTV on 36.2
Fajardo 40 15 WMTJ PBS PBS Kids on 40.2
Guayama 46 34 WIDP EBN Cielo TV on 25.11 (WZNA-LD 3.1), Triunfo 96.9 on 46.2, Aliento Vision on 46.4
Caguas 58 24 WUJA Pura Palabra Ind. on 58.2
Humacao 68 23 WVSN La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1) CDM SD on 68.2

Defunct full-service stations

[edit]
  • Channel 14: WPSJ - Ponce
  • Channel 14: WMEI - Arecibo (2007-2017)
  • Channel 16: WMGZ - Mayagüez
  • Channel 16: WTRA - Mayagüez (1986-1999)
  • Channel 18: WTSJ - San Juan (1964-1972)
  • Channel 20: WUHM-TV - Ponce (1970s)
  • Channel 30: WITA-TV - San Juan (1966-1967)
  • Channel 31: WSJU-TV - San Juan (1985-2017)
  • Channel 34: WFNN - Fajardo
  • Channel 36: WOTE - Bayamón
  • Channel 42: WUIA-TV - San Germán
  • Channel 46: WCNT - Cidra
  • Channel 62: WFEC-TV - San Juan

LPTV stations

[edit]
Area served City of license VC RF Callsign Network Notes
Mayagüez 5.5 5 W05CY-D ABC (WORA-TV 5.1) DW on 5.6, 24 Horas on 5.7, Telecinco on 5.8
Mayagüez Aguada 25 6 W06DA-D Cielo TV (WZNA-LD 3.1)
Mayagüez Añasco 8.2 8 W08EJ-D Tiva TV (WRUA 8.8)
Mayagüez 15 15 WKHD-LD Cielo TV (WZNA-LD 3.1)
Mayagüez Aguadilla 30 14 WSJP-LD Cozi TV Fox on 30.2, Comet on 30.3, This TV on 30.4 (WVXF 17.1)
Mayagüez 55.2 2 W02CU-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro Internacional on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Mayagüez Isabela 19 18 WSTN-LD TeleNorte Buena TV on 19.2, WXWZ-LD on 23.1
Mayagüez 54 22 W22FA-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
55 30 WNTE-LD Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 55.5, Teleuniverso on 55.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Ponce 8 8 W08EH-D Tiva TV (WRUA 8.8)
Ponce Villalba 54 16 W16CW-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Ponce 25 15 WUSP-LD CTNi (WSJN-CD 20.1) Tiva TV on 8.1 (WRUA 8.8), CTN on 25.2 (WSJN-CD 20.2), 3ABN Latino on 44.1 (W10DD-D 44.2), Lighthouse TV on 60.1 (WSJN-CD 60.1)
10 2 W02CS-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Ponce Yauco 35 35 W35DS-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 35.5, Teleuniverso on 35.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
San Juan Guaynabo 3 3 WZNA-LD Cielo TV
8.2 8 W08EI-D Tiva TV (WRUA 8.8) Salvación TV on 8.3, Paraíso TV on 8.7 (WTPM-LD 28.1)
San Juan Carolina 10 4 WVDO-LD Encanto TV Telemicro on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Naranjito 10 4 W24EI-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Toa Baja 54 17 W17DL-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Arroyo 46 17 W17EA-D EBN (WIDP 46.1) Cielo TV on 25.11 (WZNA-LD 3.1), Triunfo 96.9 on 46.2, Aliento Vision on 46.4
Ceiba 54 18 W18DZ-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Luquillo 10 20 W20DQ-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
San Juan 20 22 WSJN-CD CTNi Tiva TV on 8.1 (WRUA 8.8), CTN on 20.2, 3ABN Latino on 44.1 (W10DD-D 44.2), Lighthouse TV on 60.1
San Juan Arecibo 20 36 WIMN-CD JLTV
Ceiba 68 32 W32FB-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Guayama 23 36 WXWZ-LD Más TV The Retro Channel on 23.2, Tele Norte on channel 19.1
Culebra 68 19 W19EP-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Toa Baja 54 19 W19EY-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Arecibo 10 2 W02CT-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Caguas 10 20 W20DS-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Humacao 10 20 W20DR-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 10.5, Teleuniverso on 10.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Guayama 31 31 W31DV-D Encanto TV (WVDO-LD 10.1) Telemicro on 31.5, Teleuniverso on 31.29, DNJ TV on 77.1
Ceiba 32 32 WSJU-LD Mix TV Radio Station
Vieques 68 33 W33ED-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
San Juan 38 2 WWXY-LD TVO Network Boricua TV on 25.1, Maranatha Radio Ministries on 62.1
San Juan 44.2 10 W10DD-D 3ABN Latino 3ABN on 44.3, 3ABN Proclaim on 44.4, 3ABN Dare to Dream on 44.5, 3ABN Radio on 44.6, 3ABN Radio Latino on 44.7, Radio 74 on 44.8
San Juan Guayama 44 30 W30ED-D La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Caguas 33 33 W33EL-D Buena TV Tele Norte on channel 19.1
Mayagüez 28 28 WTPM-LD Paraiso TV Hope on 28.2, 3ABN Latino on 28.3, Esperanza TV on 28.4, Paraiso 92.9 FM on 28.5

Defunct/Inactive LPTV stations

[edit]
  • Channel 8: W08AB (CDM Internacional) - Guayama
  • Channel 14: W14BM - Rio Piedras
  • Channel 17 (RF channel 17): W17CZ-D - San Juan
  • Channel 17 (RF channel 17): W17DK-D (TV RED) - Salinas
  • Channel 20: WPRU-LP - (ABC) - Aguadilla
  • Channel 22: W22AB - (Telemundo) - Mayagüez
  • Channel 24: WSJX-LP - (LATV) - Aguadilla
  • Channel 26 (RF channel 26): W26DO-D - (PBS) - Mayagüez
  • Channel 30 (RF channel 30): W30CQ-D - Ponce
  • Channel 31 (RF channel 31): W31DE-D - Mayagüez
  • Channel 32: W32AA - (Telemundo) - Aguadilla
  • Channel 33: W33BE - (Religious) - Arecibo
  • Channel 36 (RF channel 31): W31DL-D - (Newsmax TV/Rev'n/SonLife/Retro TV) - Ponce
  • Channel 38: W38AB - (Ponce Television Corporation) - San Sebastián
  • Channel 39 (RF channel 39): W39DE-D - (Liberty Junior College TV) - Cayey
  • Channel 41 (RF channel 42): W42DZ-D - (TV RED) - Adjuntas
  • Channel 42: W42AA - (Telemundo) - Yauco
  • Channel 43: W43AA - (WAPA) - Utuado
  • Channel 43: W43AW - (Signal Broadcasting) - San Juan
  • Channel 44 (RF channel 44): W44CV-D - (TV RED) - Utuado
  • Channel 45 (RF channel 45): W45DI-D - (TV RED) - Juana Diaz
  • Channel 45 (RF channel 46): W46EO-D - (TV RED) - Culebra
  • Channel 46 (RF channel 46): W46ES-D - (TV RED) - Ponce
  • Channel 46: W46AZ - San Juan
  • Channel 47 (RF channel 47): W47DX-D - (TV RED) - Canovanas
  • Channel 47 (RF channel 48): W48DT-D - (TV RED) - Guayanilla
  • Channel 49: W49AC - (WAPA) - Adjuntas
  • Channel 50: W50AV - San Germán
  • Channel 56: W56AA - (WAPA) - Orocovis
  • Channel 56: W56BC - (Canal 13) - Fajardo
  • Channel 58: W58AA - (Ponce Television Corporation) - Caguas
  • Channel 59: W59BQ - Ponce
  • Channel 60: W60AA - (Western Broadcasting Corporation) - San Germán
  • Channel 60: W60AW - (Canal 13) - Arecibo
  • Channel 65: W65BQ - Mayagüez
  • Channel 65: W65CJ - Guayama
  • Channel 66: W66AY - Mayagüez
  • Channel 67: W67BN - Mayagüez
  • Channel 69: W69BR - Mayagüez
  • Channel 72: W72AO - Maricao
  • Channel 82: W82AM - Maricao
  • Channel 83: W83AO - Jayuya

Translators

[edit]
Area served City of license VC RF Callsign Translating Network Notes
Mayagüez 10 5 W10BG-D W05CY-D ABC (WORA-TV 5.1) DW on 10.2, 24 Horas on 10.3, Telecinco on 10.4
12 21 W21CX-D WOLE-DT TeleOnce(WLII-DT 11.1) UniMás on 12.2
Mayagüez Quebradillas 19 34 WWKQ-LD WOST ShopHQ (WOST 14.1) OnTV4U on 14.3, EEE Network on 14.4, BeIN Sports Xtra on 14.5, BeIN Español on 14.6
48 23 WQSJ-CD WSJN-CD Tiva TV (WRUA 8.8) CTNi on 48.1, CTN on 48.2, 3ABN Latino on 44.1 (W10DD-D 44.2), Lighthouse TV on 60.1 (WSJN-CD 60.1)
Mayagüez 51 27 W27DZ-D WOST Infomercials (WOST 14.1)
Mayagüez Aguada 54 16 W16DX-D WCCV-TV La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1)
Ponce Adjuntas 2 28 W28EH-D WKAQ-TV Telemundo (WKAQ-TV 2.1) Punto 2 on 2.2, NBC on 2.3
Ponce 5 5 W05DB-D WORA-TV ABC (WORA-TV 5.1) DW on 5.2, 24 Horas on 5.3, Telecinco on 5.4
14 24 WQQZ-CD WOST ShopHQ (WOST 14.1) OnTV4U on 14.2, Fox on 14.3 (WSJP-LD 30.2), EEE Network on 14.4, MMN on 14.5
Ponce Yauco 54 13 W13DI-D WCCV-TV La Cadena del Milagro (WCCV-TV 54.1) CDM HD on 54.2
San Juan Fajardo 2 9 W09AT-D WKAQ-TV Telemundo (WKAQ-TV 2.1) Punto 2 on 2.2, NBC on 2.3
Utuado 2 28 W28EQ-D WKAQ-TV Telemundo (WKAQ-TV 2.1) Punto 2 on 2.2, NBC on 2.3
Fajardo 5 5 W05DA-D WORA-TV ABC (WORA-TV 5.1)
San Lorenzo 5 29 W29EE-D WORA-TV ABC (WORA-TV 5.1) DW on 5.2, 24 Horas on 5.3, Telecinco on 5.4
Isabel Segunda 8 14 WVQS-LD WSJN-CD Tiva TV (WRUA 8.8) CTNi on 20.1, CTN on 20.2, CTNi on 34.1, 3ABN Latino on 44.1
San Juan 26 20 W20EJ-D WOST Infomercials Fox on 26.2, JTV on 26.3, EEE Network on 26.4, Novelisima on 26.5, BeIN Sports Xtra on 26.6

Stations leased for Construction Permit

[edit]
  • Channel 10 (RF channel 10): W10CZ-D - San Juan
  • Channel 31 (RF channel 31): W31DK-D - Mayagüez
  • Channel 36 (RF channel 36): W36DU-D - Mayagüez
  • Channel 38 (RF channel 38): W38EN-D - San Juan
  • Channel 51 (RF channel 51): W51EH-D - Ponce

See also

[edit]

Bibliography

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

List of television stations in Puerto Rico

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Television broadcasting in , an unincorporated territory of the , is regulated by the (FCC) and encompasses a diverse array of stations serving the commonwealth as a single designated market area (DMA). The list of television stations in primarily catalogs the 21 full-power outlets, along with numerous low-power translators and repeaters, that deliver programming in Spanish and English to approximately 3.2 million residents across the island. These stations feature a blend of local content such as news, telenovelas, comedies, and talk shows, supplemented by affiliations with national networks. The origins of television in Puerto Rico trace back to March 28, 1954, when WKAQ-TV (channel 2) signed on as the island's first station, inaugurating regular Spanish-language programming under the Telemundo banner. This milestone was quickly followed by WAPA-TV (channel 4) later that year, establishing the foundation for commercial broadcasting. By the late 1950s, additional stations like WIPR-TV (channel 6), the public broadcaster, expanded access, with the number of TV sets in households surging to approximately 150,000 by 1961. Among the most prominent full-power stations are in San Juan, affiliated with and owned by ; , an independent powerhouse producing over 70 hours of weekly local content and recognized as Puerto Rico's leading network for 15 consecutive years as of 2025; WLII-TV (channel 11) in Caguas, part of the network and co-owned with WSUR-TV (channel 9) in Ponce; and , operated by the Public Broadcasting Corporation as the local affiliate. Other notable outlets include WORA-TV (channel 5) in Mayagüez, affiliated with , and several religious broadcasters such as WDWL (channel 36) carrying TBN Enlace and WECN (channel 64) from Encuentro Christian Network. The landscape also includes a significant number of independent and specialty stations, such as WCCV-TV (channel 54) focused on religious programming and WRFB (channel 52) dedicated to Spanish music videos, reflecting the cultural and faith-based diversity of the audience. Low-power stations and translators extend coverage to remote areas, while cable and satellite services like those from Liberty provide access to these signals alongside U.S. national channels. Overall, Puerto Rico's television sector emphasizes locally produced content, with major players like Televicentro of Puerto Rico, LLC, owned by Hemisphere Media Group, owning multiple stations including and affiliates.

Background

History of Television Broadcasting

Television broadcasting in Puerto Rico commenced on March 28, 1954, with the launch of WKAQ-TV (channel 2), the island's inaugural station, owned by Ángel Ramos and affiliated initially with CBS, carrying a mix of U.S. network programs and local Spanish-language content. WAPA-TV (channel 4) followed shortly after on May 1, 1954, establishing the foundation for commercial broadcasting under the oversight of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC). These early outlets emphasized locally produced Spanish-language programming, such as telenovelas, variety shows, and news, which quickly dominated viewership despite some importation of English-language content from mainland U.S. networks. The late 1950s marked further expansion, including the debut of educational broadcasting with (channel 6) in 1958, operated by the Puerto Rico Public Broadcasting Corporation to deliver public service and instructional content. Additional commercial stations like WRIK-TV (initially on channel 7) signed on that same year in Ponce, contributing to a growing landscape of regional coverage. During the and , the industry proliferated with increased local production, adoption, and infrastructure development, reaching five major operating stations by 1979 that served diverse audiences through a blend of imported U.S. affiliations—such as and ABC via simulcasts on stations like WKAQ—and predominantly Spanish-language fare. A pivotal shift occurred on June 12, 2009, when full-power stations transitioned to digital , ceasing analog broadcasts as mandated by the FCC; for instance, reassigned to RF channel 28 to optimize signal efficiency. This enabled the introduction of multicast subchannels, allowing stations to offer multiple simultaneous streams of programming, including additional news, entertainment, and public service content. Subsequent challenges included the devastation from in September 2017, which disrupted infrastructure and left most television outlets offline for weeks, with only five full-power stations reported operational shortly after landfall, prompting extensive recovery efforts to restore broadcast capabilities. In recent years, the sector has evolved toward integration, exemplified by WAPA Media's 2023 convergence of radio, television, and digital platforms to enhance content delivery across traditional and online channels. As of 2025, 21 active full-power stations continue to serve Puerto Rico's population of over 3.2 million, maintaining a strong emphasis on Spanish-language programming that reflects and local interests.

Regulatory Framework

Television broadcasting in Puerto Rico falls under the jurisdiction of the (FCC) as an unincorporated territory of the , integrating it into the national broadcast spectrum allocation framework. The FCC treats as part of the broader U.S. broadcast ecosystem, with the San Juan Designated Market Area (DMA) ranked 18th in the 2024-2025 Nielsen rankings, encompassing the island's primary viewing audience. This integration ensures that Puerto Rican stations adhere to the same federal licensing and operational standards as those on the mainland, including spectrum assignments coordinated through the FCC's Media Bureau. Key FCC regulations governing television stations in include licensing limits for different station classes: full-power stations may operate up to 1,000 kW () for UHF channels in certain zones, low-power television (LPTV) stations up to 15 kW for UHF and 3 kW for VHF, and broadcast translators up to 250 W . Following the nationwide completed on June 12, 2009, all full-power and Class A stations in must broadcast exclusively in digital format, with analog operations terminated to free up for advanced services. Additionally, broadcasters are subject to () requirements under 47 CFR § 73.2080, which mandate recruitment efforts and non-discrimination in hiring practices across all station employment units, including those in . Puerto Rico's unique status as a introduces specific considerations in , where the island and the U.S. are treated as a single Major Trading Area (MTA)-like entity for licensing and interference protection purposes. While there are no formal FCC quotas for bilingual programming, incentives exist through public media to encourage Spanish-English content that serves the predominantly bilingual , particularly for educational and cultural broadcasts. Public television stations, such as those operated by the Puerto Rico Corporation (WIPR), receive support from the (CPB), which allocates federal funds to promote local non-commercial programming in line with national public media goals. Recent FCC enforcement actions highlight compliance challenges in Puerto Rico, including a June 2024 admonishment (DA 24-548) against the Puerto Rico Public Broadcasting Corporation for violations of public file maintenance rules during license renewals for WIPR-TV and WIPM-TV. Crackdowns under the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement (PIRATE) Act, primarily targeting unlicensed radio operations, indirectly protect television spectrum by deterring unauthorized transmissions that could cause interference in shared broadcast bands, with notable actions in Puerto Rico against pirate operators in 2023. The construction permit (CP) process for new or modified television facilities in requires submission of FCC Form 301, detailing technical parameters, ownership, and financial qualifications, followed by environmental reviews under the (NEPA) to assess potential impacts on historic sites, wildlife, and communities. Spectrum assignments often occur through FCC auctions, as seen in the 2017 Broadcast Incentive Auction, which repackaged UHF channels and led several Puerto Rican stations to relinquish spectrum or relocate frequencies to optimize national deployment while minimizing service disruptions in the territory. As of 2025, the FCC continues to promote voluntary adoption of (NextGen TV) standards in , offering enhanced video quality, interactivity, and improved signal propagation in the island's rugged terrain without mandating a full transition or requirements for low-power stations. This encourages broadcasters to upgrade facilities for better coverage in remote areas, supported by recent rule updates facilitating LPTV and translator participation in the NextGen ecosystem.

Full-Power Stations

Active Full-Power Stations

Puerto Rico's active full-power television stations provide island-wide coverage through UHF digital transmissions, with all facilities operating under ATSC 1.0 standards following the nationwide digital transition completed on June 12, 2009. Following the 2017 incentive auction and spectrum repacking, most full-power stations operate on UHF channels, though some VHF high-band (channels 7-13) assignments remain in use. Ownership is concentrated among major groups such as (Telemundo/NBC operations), Hemisphere Media Group (independent and sports programming), and Liberman Broadcasting ( affiliates), alongside public and religious broadcasters; these entities control the majority of the approximately 21 active full-power outlets, emphasizing Spanish-language content, network affiliates, and . Many stations offer multiple digital subchannels for additional networks like , sports, or religious services to maximize viewer reach. The following table lists key active full-power stations as of November 2025, including their primary affiliations and subchannel offerings for broader programming diversity.
Call signVirtual / RF channelCity of licenseOwnerNetwork affiliationERP (kW)Notes
WKAQ-TV2 / 28San Juan of Puerto Rico LLC () (2.1), (2.3), Spanish Independent (2.2)925 (H) / 312 (V)Primary outlet with ; subchannels include Punto 2 independent programming; HAAT 1,027 ft.
WAPA-TV4 / 27San JuanTelevicentro of Puerto Rico, LLC (Hemisphere Media Group)Independent (4.1), Sports (4.2)1,000 with sports-focused subchannel (WAPA 2 Deportes); extensive and entertainment.
WIPR-TV6 / 26San JuanPuerto Rico Public Broadcasting Corporation (6.1)750Public broadcaster with educational subchannels (6.2 SD, 6.3 Kids); serves as the main affiliate for the island.
WLII-DT11 / 11CaguasLiberman Media Group LLC (11.1), Spanish Independent (11.2)160 (V) for eastern ; shares Teleisla independent subchannel with .
WSTE-DT7 / 7PonceWSTE, LLC ( Local Media)Spanish Independent (7.1), (7.2)50Operates distributed transmission system for southern coverage; features Teleisla programming and .
WSUR-DT9 / 9PonceLiberman Media Group LLC (9.1), Spanish Independent (9.2)21.6 affiliate for southern ; includes Teleisla subchannel; pending power increase to 43 kW.
WTIN-TV4 / 14PonceTelevicentro of Puerto Rico, LLC (Hemisphere Media Group)Independent (4.1), Sports (4.2), (4.3 )750 with sports and network simulcasts; extends WAPA and WKAQ coverage to the south.
WECN18 / 18NaranjitoEncuentro Christian Network Corporation ()Religious (18.1), Spanish Independent (18.2)50Religious-focused broadcaster with TiVa TV and subchannels; serves central and northern areas.
Additional active full-power stations include satellite and repeater facilities such as WIPM-TV (PBS, Mayagüez), WORA-TV (independent/ABC affiliate, Mayagüez), WOLE-DT (Univision, Aguadilla), and WVEO (Mega TV, Aguadilla), which enhance coverage in western and rural regions through simulcasts and localized content. In June 2025, Spanish Broadcasting System sold WVEO, along with WTCV (San Juan) and WVOZ-TV (Ponce), to Word of God Fellowship, Inc. These stations collectively ensure broad accessibility across Puerto Rico's terrain-challenged landscape, with many employing directional antennas and elevated towers for optimal signal propagation.

Defunct Full-Power Stations

Several full-power television stations in Puerto Rico ceased operations during the mid-to-late 20th century, primarily due to financial difficulties, market saturation, and challenges in sustaining viewership in a predominantly Spanish-speaking audience. These closures were exacerbated by the island's economic downturns in the , when over 100 factories shut down amid rising and reduced advertising revenue for broadcasters. Early attempts at English-language programming also struggled, as they catered to a limited continental U.S. expatriate demographic rather than the broader local market. The following table lists notable defunct full-power stations, including their call signs, channels, primary cities of license, operational years, affiliations or owners where known, and primary closure reasons based on available records.
Call SignChannelCity of LicenseSign-On YearSign-Off YearFormer Owner/AffiliationClosure Reason
WPSJ-TV14Ponce19701970sIndependentFinancial difficulties and low economic viability in a saturated market
WMGZ-TV16Mayagüez1970s1970sTelesanjuan, Inc.Economic challenges and competition from established stations
WTSJ-TV18San Juan19641972NBC affiliate (English-language)Insufficient viewership due to language mismatch with local audience and financial strain
WITA-TV30San Juan19661967El Imparcial (independent, English-language)Failure to attract advertisers and viewers in a Spanish-dominant market
WKBM-TV (formerly WRIK-TV)11Ponce/San Juan1958 (as WRIK); 1960 (as WKBM)1981Telecadena Pérez-Perry (independent)Bankruptcy and severe financial problems following the owner's death
These stations represent a wave of closures from the late 1960s through the 1980s, reducing the number of full-power outlets from over a dozen to fewer than 10 active by the 1990s. The economic pressures of the era, including high operational costs and limited revenue streams, forced many independent operators out of business, consolidating the market around dominant players like WAPA-TV and WKAQ-TV (Telemundo). Following the 2009 , no major full-power stations went defunct due to operational failures, though spectrum repacking and auctions led to some voluntary cessations, such as WSJU-TV (channel 31, San Juan) in 2017 after selling its spectrum assets amid post-hurricane recovery challenges. This shift marked a stabilization, with the industry focusing on digital and cable integration rather than new analog-era closures. The legacy of these early defunct stations underscores how economic volatility shaped Puerto Rico's broadcast landscape, prioritizing viable Spanish-language networks and reducing diversity in .

Low-Power Television Stations

Active LPTV Stations

Low-power television (LPTV) stations in serve as vital supplements to full-power broadcasters, delivering targeted content to specific communities and addressing coverage limitations in rural or secondary markets. These stations, licensed by the (FCC), operate with (ERP) generally under 10 kW for UHF channels, enabling localized operations without interfering with primary signals. This includes standard LPTV as well as Class A stations, which have additional interference protections. All active LPTV stations transitioned to by July 13, 2021, the final FCC deadline, enhancing signal quality and allowing programming. As of 2025, approximately 50 such stations are operational across the island, focusing on niche audiences through original or syndicated content. These stations predominantly feature religious programming, ethnic content in Spanish with occasional English elements, and independent local formats, catering to Puerto Rico's diverse cultural landscape. Ownership remains fragmented, with key players including religious organizations such as the and Asociacion Evangelistica Cristo Viene Inc., ethnic-focused entities like HC2 Holdings Inc., and independent local groups; unlike full-power networks, no single national affiliation dominates the LPTV sector. Many stations extend their footprint via auxiliary translators, amplifying reach in remote areas like Vieques and rural municipalities. The following table lists representative active LPTV stations, illustrating their distribution and formats:
Call SignVirtual ChannelRF ChannelCity of LicenseOwnerAffiliation/FormatERPNotes
22San JuanWanda Rolón (licensee); operated by Religious (CTNi)Class A station with international Christian network affiliation; includes subchannels for additional faith programming.
WQQZ-CD24PonceHC2 Station Group Inc. (HC2 Holdings)Independent (Aquí TV)Ethnic and infomercial-focused; part of a larger group targeting audiences.
WTPM-LD28MayagüezChristian Broadcasting Network of Mayaguez, Inc.Religious (, 3ABN Latino)Multicast religious channels; serves western region with English-Spanish mix.
WVQS-LD Segunda (Vieques)Senda Educational BroadcastingIndependent ( of WSJN-CD)Low-power providing religious content to offshore island; highlights LPTV's role in isolated communities.

Defunct and Inactive LPTV Stations

Several low-power television (LPTV) stations in have become defunct or inactive over the years, primarily due to financial challenges, the high costs of transitioning to , and displacements from the 2017 FCC spectrum incentive auction repack. The FCC's 2011 rules required LPTV stations to cease analog operations and transition to digital by September 1, 2015, though extensions were granted; many smaller operators in struggled with equipment upgrades and operational expenses, leading to license relinquishments or silence. Additionally, the incentive auction, which closed in April 2017, resulted in channel reassignments that displaced numerous LPTV stations nationwide, including in , forcing some to seek new frequencies or go off-air when no suitable channels were available. Approximately 20-30 LPTV stations historically operated in from the to , with several silenced pre-2009 during initial digital planning and others affected post-auction; LPTV signals are limited to low power (up to 10 kW for digital), restricting their range and viability in competitive markets. Key examples include WPRU-LP (channel 20, Aquadilla), a former ABC repeater owned by Caribbean Broadcasting Network, which ceased operations around the mid- amid digital conversion costs and constraints. WSJU-LP (channel 31, ), previously an ABC affiliate under Aerco Broadcasting, has been inactive since the early 2000s, holding a but not due to financial non-viability. WIMN-CA (channel 20, Arecibo), a religious-formatted Class A LPTV licensed to Cabrera, went defunct in the after failing to sustain operations post-digital transition, though its was briefly active into the before expiration.
Call SignChannelCityFormer Owner/FormatInactive Since
WPRU-LP20AquadillaCaribbean Broadcasting Network / ABC repeaterMid-2010s
WSJU-LP31Aerco Broadcasting / ABC repeaterEarly 2000s
WIMN-CA20AreciboCarmen Cabrera / Religious2010s
W08AB8GuayamaCDM Internacional / Independent2010s
W14BM14Rio PiedrasUnknown / LocalPre-2015
These stations often relinquished licenses voluntarily due to inability to afford digital upgrades or find displacement channels, with some retaining construction permits (CPs) but remaining silent. As of 2025, few new defunct cases have emerged, thanks to digital stability and potential upgrades for remaining LPTV operations, though economic pressures from events like hurricanes continue to threaten viability.

Broadcast Translator Stations

Active Translator Stations

Active translator stations in Puerto Rico serve as low-power rebroadcasters that extend the coverage of full-power television signals into remote, mountainous, or island communities where direct reception is challenging due to terrain or distance. These stations operate without originating local programming, instead relaying the signals from primary affiliates such as major networks like Telemundo, NBC, or ABC affiliates. As of 2025, approximately 35-40 such stations remain operational across the island, primarily VHF and UHF fill-in translators owned by the licensees of the originating full-power stations. They play a vital role in providing broadcast access to rural areas, including outer islands like Vieques and Culebra, where full-power signals may not reach reliably. These translators are digital-only following the completion of the DTV transition, enabling more efficient signal rebroadcasting with improved quality over analog systems. Technical specifications typically include (ERP) under 250 watts, directional antennas aimed at underserved areas, and compliance with FCC interference protection rules for primary stations. Ownership is tied to the primary broadcaster, ensuring alignment with network affiliations, and stations must maintain operations under FCC Part 74 regulations for TV broadcast translators. Post-Hurricane Maria in 2017, many translators experienced outages, prompting reinforcements and license extensions from the FCC to facilitate recovery and upgrades for resilience against future storms. Maintenance efforts focused on generator backups and structural hardening, with ongoing FCC monitoring to ensure continued service. The following table provides representative examples of active translator stations, including call sign, output channel (physical/virtual), location, and the primary station rebroadcasted:
Call SignOutput Channel (Physical/Virtual)LocationRebroadcasts From
W09AT-D25 / 2Fajardo (/)
W28EQ-D28 / 2Utuado (/)
W28EH-D28 / 2Adjuntas (/)
W05CY-D5 / 5MayagüezWORA-TV (ABC)
W10BG-D10 / 5MayagüezWORA-TV (ABC)
W29EE-D29 / 5San LorenzoWRFB (ABC)

Defunct Translator Stations

Defunct translator stations in primarily ceased operations due to the nationwide shift to and spectrum reallocation efforts, rendering many legacy analog systems obsolete or redundant for extending full-power signals into remote areas. The mandated the termination of all analog operations for low-power television (LPTV) and TV translator stations by 11:59 p.m. on July 13, 2021, after multiple extensions from the initial 2015 deadline; stations that failed to transition to digital were automatically canceled and became defunct. This affected numerous translators in , particularly pre-2009 analog facilities that rebroadcast VHF signals from the 1980s and , as digital full-power stations provided broader coverage without the need for low-power relays. The 2016 broadcast incentive auction (Auction 1000) and subsequent repacking process further displaced by reassigning channels, leading to additional deactivations when suitable new frequencies were unavailable or uneconomical to implement; this included "digital cliff effects," where digital signals experience sudden signal loss at coverage edges, making some unnecessary as primary stations improved. Impacts from these closures have included enhanced overall broadcast coverage through consolidated primary signals, with a few former repurposed as LPTV facilities to maintain local service.
Call SignChannelLocationFormer Primary SignalDeactivation Date/Reason
W17CZ-D17San JuanUnspecified local affiliatePost-2017 repacking displacement; license inactive due to inability to relocate channel.
As of 2025, new deactivations among are rare, with regulatory focus shifting to preserving historical records of these legacy systems for archival and reference purposes.

Special Broadcast Facilities

Stations with Construction Permits

Stations with construction permits represent television facilities authorized by the (FCC) to construct transmission infrastructure but not yet operational. These permits are issued following applications for new stations, major modifications, or relocations, often stemming from spectrum auctions or the 2017-2020 broadcast television process that reassigned channels to free up for . Permit holders must complete and file for a license to cover within three years of the grant date, though extensions may be requested for good cause, such as delays in obtaining local approvals or environmental clearances; failure to build can result in permit cancellation. In , the island's rugged terrain, hurricane vulnerability, and complex permitting processes with local authorities frequently pose challenges to timely , particularly for UHF facilities in remote or elevated sites. As of August 2025, active permits primarily involve digital upgrades for existing public broadcasters, with in the beginning stages of (NextGen TV) adoption to enhance signal coverage and interactive features. The following table lists select active construction permits for full-power and low-power television stations in Puerto Rico, focusing on those with recent extensions or notable progress.
Call SignProposed Channel (RF)City of LicenseApplicant/OwnerPermit Grant DateExpiration DateNotes
WIPR-TV43San JuanPuerto Rico Public Broadcasting CorporationMarch 28, 2023Extended; active as of August 2025Post-repack digital facility for PBS affiliate; multiple extensions granted due to delays in tower construction and local use permits amid terrain challenges; involves coordination with Federal Aviation Administration for antenna structure. Recent Special Temporary Authority (STA) granted May 7, 2025.
WIPM-TV32MayagüezPuerto Rico Public Broadcasting CorporationMarch 28, 2023Extended; active as of August 2025Post-repack digital facility serving western Puerto Rico; similar extensions for construction delays related to environmental reviews and site preparation in hurricane-prone area; part of statewide public TV network upgrade.

Leased Stations

Leased stations in Puerto Rico represent temporary arrangements where television facilities are operated under lease agreements, frequently to meet construction permit requirements or conduct operational testing. These setups enable licensees to activate usage on a short-term basis, supporting transitional needs in a market characterized by geographic and regulatory challenges. Under FCC regulations outlined in 47 CFR §73.3555, such time brokerage or leasing agreements are restricted to ensure they do not confer attributable ownership interests if the lessee controls less than 25% of the station's programming time. Such leases are uncommon in Puerto Rico, occurring in roughly 2-5 instances annually, predominantly involving low-power television (LPTV) stations or broadcast translators. They are typically arranged with religious organizations or facilitated by entities like HC2 Holdings, which maintains a significant portfolio of LPTV assets across the U.S., including in , often leasing airtime to niche programmers. This scarcity stems from the island's compact media landscape, where full or network affiliations are more prevalent than temporary control arrangements. FCC rules on time brokerage further constrain these deals to prevent , requiring disclosure in ownership reports if thresholds are met. A distinctive feature of leased stations in Puerto Rico is their contribution to spectrum sharing in the congested UHF band, where the territory's and high in urban areas like San Juan demand optimized . Lessees remain bound by the primary licensee's responsibilities, such as (EEO) compliance and upkeep of public files accessible via the FCC's online database. These obligations ensure continuity of regulatory standards despite the temporary nature of the arrangement. This trend supports broader FCC efforts to transition to next-generation TV standards across U.S. markets, including territories like .
Call SignChannelLessee/LessorLease TermPurpose
WIRS42SonLife Broadcasting Network / América-CV Station Group, Inc.Ongoing affiliation (post-2016)Religious programming distribution across via LPTV
Historical examples include temporary leases following in 2017, where public broadcasters like the WIPR network utilized short-term arrangements to restore service during recovery efforts, though specific details are documented in FCC recovery filings rather than ongoing leases.

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