The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has released a groundbreaking study titled “Blocktiming Practices in the Philippine Free TV Industry,” examining the impact of blocktiming on market competition. This comes at a crucial moment for the country’s media landscape, where GMA Network dominates the free TV sector with a staggering 93% market share following the non-renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise in 2020.
With the potential return of ABS-CBN to free TV and the rise of over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms, the industry is evolving rapidly. So, what does this mean for content creators, networks, and Filipino viewers?
What is Blocktiming, and Why Does It Matter?
Blocktiming is a broadcasting arrangement where independent content producers purchase airtime from TV networks to air their programs. This practice allows a variety of shows to be broadcast, even if the content producer does not own a network.
While this system creates opportunities for more content, the PCC study raises concerns about its effect on competition—especially in a market where one network holds the majority of viewership.
The Market Shift: GMA Network’s Dominance and Its Implications
With ABS-CBN removed from free TV, GMA Network now controls 93% of the market. This has led to discussions about input foreclosure—a situation where a dominant network can refuse to sell airtime to certain content producers or set prices so high that independent producers cannot afford to broadcast their shows.
In a healthy competitive market, networks should provide fair access to airtime, allowing various producers to reach Filipino audiences. However, the PCC’s study suggests that while foreclosure is a concern, economic factors prevent total market control.
Why Networks Are Unlikely to Fully Foreclose Airtime
According to the PCC’s analysis, completely shutting out independent content producers is unlikely because:
Networks prioritize their own content and already prefer airing their in-house programs over blocktime agreements.
Limiting airtime reduces audience reach, making the network less attractive to advertisers.
Advertising revenue could drop if the variety of content decreases, as advertisers prefer networks with a broad and engaged audience.
While the potential for market abuse exists, the PCC finds that current industry practices naturally discourage full foreclosure.
How OTT Platforms Are Changing the Game
Another major force reshaping the industry is the rapid growth of over-the-top (OTT) platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming services. These platforms give content producers alternative distribution channels, reducing their reliance on traditional TV networks.
For instance, many independent Filipino content creators are now thriving on digital platforms without needing a TV network to distribute their work. This challenges the dominance of free TV networks and provides audiences with more diverse programming choices.
A Potential Game-Changer: The Return of ABS-CBN?
A major development that could disrupt the free TV market is the possible return of ABS-CBN as a major player. Since 2022, five bills have been filed in Congress seeking to grant the network a new 25-year franchise.
In January 2025, Representative Joey Salceda filed House Bill 11252, the latest attempt to restore ABS-CBN’s free TV operations. The House Committee on Legislative Franchises is expected to deliberate on these proposals soon, which could significantly impact the competitive landscape.
If ABS-CBN regains its franchise, it could break GMA’s near-monopoly, providing audiences with more choices and creating a more balanced and competitive media industry.
What’s Next for Philippine Broadcasting?
With PCC’s findings on blocktiming, OTT platforms changing content distribution, and ABS-CBN’s possible return, the Philippine free TV industry is at a turning point.
The coming months will be critical in shaping the future of television in the country. Will competition remain fair and open, or will market concentration continue to limit content diversity? One thing is certain—viewers, content creators, and advertisers are watching closely.
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