COM1232: BROADCASTING

PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES

MODULE 1:
BROADCASTING AS A
COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this module, students should understand

what broadcasting is, how it functions as a
communication system, and its role in Philippine
society in a convergent media environment.
 MODULE 1:
Broadcasting as a
Communication System

• What is Broadcasting and How It

Works

• Types of Radio and TV Stations

• Types of Radio and TV Broadcasting

and their Characteristics

• Common Uses of Radio and TV

• Broadcasting in a Convergent Media

Environment

• Institutional, Ethical, and Regulatory

Contexts of Philippine Broadcasting
What is Broadcasting
and How it Works
Radio Definition of Broadcasting

• Broadcasting is the one-to-

many transmission of audio
and/or audiovisual content
through radio waves, cable,
satellite, or digital platforms.

• Key feature: simultaneous

reception by a mass audience
Radio
Radio

Radio is the transmission of

sound and other information
through electromagnetic
waves.

It's used to send music, news,

and other programs to listeners
using radio receivers.
Radio Broadcasting

Radio broadcasting is the transmission of audio content over

radio waves to reach an audience. This content can include
music, news, talk shows, advertisements, and other programs,
and it is transmitted from a radio station to be received by radio
devices.
Radio Station

A radio station is a facility that broadcasts audio content, such as

music, news, talk shows, or other programming, to the public
using radio waves.

Radio stations can operate on AM (Amplitude Modulation), FM

(Frequency Modulation), or digital platforms like DAB (Digital
Audio Broadcasting) or online streaming.
EXAMPLE
Examples Stations by Network
How Radio Broadcasting Works

Radio broadcasting works by converting sound into electrical signals,

transmitting them as radio waves through a transmitter, and sending them
over the air. These radio waves are received by radio sets, which decode
the signals back into sound for listeners.
Radio
Television (TV)

A television (TV) is an electronic

device used to receive and
display audio-visual content,
such as movies, TV shows,
news, and other programming.
TV Station

A TV station is a facility or organization that broadcasts television

programs to the public. It is responsible for creating, producing,
and transmitting TV content over a specific area or network.
Radio
TV Broadcasting

TV broadcasting is the process of transmitting

television signals over a distance, typically to a wide
audience, so they can be received by televisions or
other devices like radios, smartphones, or computers.
EXAMPLE
Stations by Network

A broadcast network is an
organization or company that
provides programming content to a
group of affiliated television or radio
stations, which then distribute this
content to viewers or listeners.
 How TV Broadcasting Works

Television broadcasting works by capturing images and sound, converting

them into electronic signals, and transmitting them through radio waves,
cable, or digital networks. These signals are received by television sets or
devices, which decode them into synchronized moving images and sound
for viewers.
 Radio Broadcasting as a Communication System

1. Source – broadcaster / station / production team

2. Message – program content
3. Channel – radio frequency, TV signal, cable, internet
4. Receiver – audience (listeners/viewers/users)
5. Feedback – ratings, comments, social media engagement

• Traditionally linear, now increasingly interactive due to digital platforms.

Types of Radio and TV Stations
Types of Radio Station:

1. Commercial Radio Station

2. Public Radio Station

3. Community Radio Station

4. Campus Radio Station

1. Commercial Radio Station

A commercial radio station is a type of radio service that

operates with the primary goal of generating profit.

These stations rely heavily on advertising revenue, sponsorships,

and sometimes subscriptions or premium content to fund their
operations.

Commercial stations typically target a broad audience and often

focus on music, entertainment, news, and talk programming.
Key Characteristics of Commercial Radio:

1. Profit-Oriented
2. Targeted Programming
3. Advertising Revenue
4. Professional Staffing
5. Wide Coverage
Profit-Oriented

• Unlike non-profit stations (such as community radio), commercial

radio stations aim to make money through advertising and
sponsorships. They often sell airtime to advertisers in order to
fund their operations.
Targeted Programming

• Commercial stations usually segment their audience based on

demographics (e.g., age, gender, interests) and tailor their
programming to meet the preferences of these groups.

• Programming might include popular music, talk shows, news,

and entertainment content that appeal to a wide audience.
Advertising Revenue

• Revenue from advertisements is the primary funding source for

commercial stations. This may include national or local ads,
promotional spots, and sponsorships.

• Commercial radio stations often have set advertising rates,

depending on their market size, listener demographics, and time
slots.
Professional Staffing

• Commercial radio stations are typically staffed by paid

professionals, including DJs, news anchors, producers, and
technical support staff. This is in contrast to community stations,
which may rely more on volunteers.
Wide Coverage

• Commercial stations often have a large geographical reach and

are typically broadcast on FM or AM frequencies, depending on
the market and content.
 2. Public Radio Station

A public radio station is a non-commercial, government-funded

or listener-supported radio service that provides programming
intended to serve the public interest.

Unlike commercial radio, which focuses on generating profit

through advertisements, public radio stations are primarily funded
by government grants, listener donations, and sponsorships.

These stations aim to offer content that informs, educates, and

entertains the public, often with a focus on quality, diversity, and
community service.
Key Characteristics of Public Radio:

1. Non-Commercial
2. Government and Listener Funding
3. Educational and Informative Content
4. Local and National Programming
5. Independent and Non-Partisan
EXAMPLE
Public Radio

Philippine Broadcasting Service (1947–2023)

The Presidential Broadcast Service - Bureau of Broadcast Services

(PBS-BBS) is a government-owned and operated radio network in the
Philippines.

It functions as the broadcasting arm of the Presidential Communications

Office (PCO) and plays a key role in delivering government information,
public service announcements, and educational programming to the Filipino
people.
EXAMPLE

PBS operates national radio

brands:

Radyo Pilipinas - Radyo Publiko,

Radyo Pilipinas - Sports Radio,
Radyo Pilipinas - Radyo Magasin,
Republika and The Capital, as well
as international shortwave station
Radyo Pilipinas World Service.
Non-Commercial

• Public radio stations are typically non-

profit and do not rely on advertising
revenue for funding. Instead, they are
supported through government
funding, listener donations,
memberships, and sponsorships.

• This allows them to focus on serving

the public interest rather than
prioritizing profit.
Government and Listener Funding

• Public radio in many countries is

funded by public taxes or government
grants

• In addition to government support,

listener donations are a significant
source of funding, especially in
countries where there is no direct
government funding.
Educational and Informative Content

• Public radio stations often focus on

educational programming, cultural
enrichment, and public affairs,
offering content that is less
commercial and more socially
relevant.

• Programming may include news,

discussions, documentaries, talk
shows, cultural programs, and
educational content for various age
groups and communities.
Local and National Programming

• Public radio stations offer a blend of

local programming (focused on local
news, events, and culture) and
national programming (such as news
from NPR in the U.S. or BBC in the
UK).

• These stations often have

collaborations with other public
broadcasters to ensure that diverse
topics are covered, from global news
to niche subjects.
Independent and Non-Partisan

• Public radio stations aim to be

independent of commercial and
political pressures. This
independence allows them to
provide balanced, non-partisan
news coverage and diverse
viewpoints.
 3. Community Radio Station

A community radio station is a non-commercial radio service

that is owned and operated by members of a local community.

Its primary goal is to serve the public interest by providing diverse

content that reflects the needs, interests, and cultural identities of
the local community.

These stations operate with the mission of giving a voice to local

communities and are often managed by non-governmental
organizations (NGOs), cooperatives, or community groups.
Key Characteristics of Community Radio:

1. Non-Profit and Local

2. Inclusive and Participatory
3. Diverse Content
4. Local and Social Focus
5. Low-Cost or Volunteer-Run
EXAMPLE

Example
Radyo Lumad

• Serves indigenous communities, particularly

the Lumad peoples of Mindanao.

Radyo Sagada (Sagada, Mountain Province)

• Serves indigenous communities and focuses

on local culture, education, and community
issues

Radyo Bakdaw (Guian, Eastern Samar)

• Community-oriented programming on
fisheries, local governance, and disaster
preparedness
 Non-Profit and Local

• These stations are typically non-profit organizations, and their

focus is on serving the community rather than generating profits.

• They are often run by volunteers or a small paid staff, with

significant involvement from local residents.
Inclusive and Participatory

• Community radio stations encourage active participation from the

community, with opportunities for local people to create and
produce programs.

• They may also include community members in decision-making

processes.
Diverse Content

• The content on community radio is varied, often reflecting the

interests of different groups within the community, such as youth,
marginalized groups, ethnic minorities, and local artists.

• Programming may include music, talk shows, news, interviews,

educational content, and public service announcements.
Local and Social Focus

• Community radio aims to promote local culture, issues, and

events that are often overlooked by commercial radio stations.

• It may focus on social issues, community development, health

education, local news, and activism.
Low-Cost or Volunteer-Run

• These stations often operate with limited budgets, relying on

volunteer work, donations, and grants.

• Equipment and broadcasting costs are kept low, often with a

small range of coverage to serve a specific geographic area.
4. Campus Radio Station

A campus radio station is a radio station operated by a college

or university primarily for educational, training, and public
service purposes. It is usually managed by students and faculty,
and serves as a laboratory for broadcasting practice while also
providing information, education, and community-oriented
programs for the campus and nearby communities.
EXAMPLE

DZUP 1602 (University of the Philippines Diliman)

– Campus-based public service and educational radio
– Focus: academic discussions, culture, public affairs

DWLB (University of the Philippines Los Baños)

– Educational and community-oriented programming
– Focus: agriculture, science, development communication
EXAMPLE

UST Tiger Radio FEU Charge Radio Mapua Cardinal Radio

Key Characteristics of Campus Radio:

1. Educational in purpose
2. Student-centered operations
3. Non-commercial or limited commercial
4. Community-oriented content
5. Experimental and creative
6. Institutionally supported
7. Public service–driven
Types of TV Station:

1. Commercial TV Station

2. Public TV Station

3. Community-based/ University-Based/ Local or Regional TV

1. Commercial TV Station

Commercial TV stations are privately owned and operate for profit.

These stations generate revenue through the sale of advertising
during their broadcasts.

Examples:

•NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX in the U.S.

•GMA Network, ABS-CBN in the Philippines.
2. Public TV Station

Public TV stations are typically funded by the

government or through public donations and
grants. These stations focus on serving the
public interest by offering educational, cultural,
and informative content, often without relying
heavily on advertisements.

Examples:

•PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) in the U.S.

•BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) in the UK.
•PTV (People's Television Network) in the Philippines.
 3. Community-Based TV Station

A Community TV station is a local

television station that primarily serves
the needs and interests of a specific
community or geographic area. These
stations often focus on providing
programming that is relevant to local
issues, events, and culture, and are
usually non-commercial in nature.

They are typically owned and

operated by local organizations, non-
Preferably called
profits, or community groups, and their
“Alternative Media”
goal is to give a voice to the
community while fostering public
participation and engagement.
 University-Based TV Station

Some universities in the Philippines,

especially those with strong
communication programs, have
campus TV stations that could be
considered a type of community TV.
These stations primarily serve the
university community but may also
provide programming that is
accessible to the public, including
educational content, cultural
programs, and local news.
 Local/Regional TV Station

Some regional or provincial TV

stations in the Philippines act similarly
to community TV stations. These local
broadcasters serve specific provinces
or cities and focus on regional news,
events, and programming.

GMA Regional TV and ABS-CBN

Regional (before its closure in 2020)
were examples of larger networks
providing localized content. Though
not "community TV" in the strict sense,
their regional focus meant that they
often aired content tailored to the local
population's interests.
Types of Radio and
TV Broadcasting
Types of Radio Broadcasting:

1. AM Broadcasting

2. FM Broadcasting

3. Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB)

4. Internet Radio
1. AM Radio

AM radio stands for Amplitude

Modulation radio, a broadcasting
technology that transmits audio
signals by varying the amplitude
(strength) of a carrier wave while
keeping its frequency constant.
 Characteristics of AM Radio

• Frequency Range:
Typically operates between 530 kHz to 1700 kHz in most countries.

• Range:
AM signals can travel long distances, especially at night, because they
reflect off the ionosphere.

• Sound Quality:
Lower sound quality compared to FM due to susceptibility to static and
interference from electrical devices, weather, or geographical
obstructions.

• Cost:
Cheaper to operate than FM, making it popular for community and talk
radio stations.
2. FM Radio

FM radio stands for Frequency

Modulation radio, a broadcasting
technology that transmits audio
signals by varying the frequency of a
carrier wave while keeping its
amplitude constant. It provides
higher sound quality and less
interference than AM radio.
 Characteristics of FM Radio

• Frequency Range: Operates in the 88 MHz to 108 MHz band in most

countries.

• Sound Quality: Superior audio quality compared to AM, with better fidelity
and stereo sound.

• Interference: Less prone to static and interference, as it uses frequency

changes rather than amplitude changes.

• Range: FM signals have a shorter range than AM and are affected by

physical obstructions like buildings and mountains.

• Bandwidth: Requires a larger bandwidth than AM, enabling better audio

quality.
3. Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB)

Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB)

is a digital radio standard that
transmits audio and data using
digital signals, offering improved
sound quality and additional features
compared to traditional analog radio.
• The Philippines introduced digital
radio broadcasts in Manila in 2009.

• Today there are eight stations

delivering 13 digital audio programs
via HD Radio technology.

• Broadcasters offering digital radio

services in the country include Manila
Broadcasting, Eagle Broadcasting,
RMN, Far East Broadcasting Corp.,
Rajah Broadcasting and ABS-CBN.

• In addition, operators have recently

launched digital services in other cities
such as Davao and Cebu.

Source: KBP
4. Internet Radio

Internet radio is a type of digital

broadcasting that streams audio
content over the internet instead
of using traditional radio waves.
It allows listeners to access live
broadcasts or pre-recorded
programs from anywhere in the
world with an internet
connection.
[Link]
Write here

Internet radio is a type of digital broadcasting that streams audio

content over the internet instead of using traditional radio waves. It
allows listeners to access live broadcasts or pre-recorded programs
from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
 Types of TV Broadcasting:

1. Terrestrial Broadcasting (Over-the-Air)

2. Cable TV Broadcasting

3. Satellite TV Broadcasting

4. Digital TV Broadcasting

5. Internet TV Broadcasting (Streaming TV)

6. Pay-Per-View (PPV) TV Broadcasting

7. HD (High Definition) TV Broadcasting

8. Interactive TV Broadcasting
1. Terrestrial Broadcasting (Over-the-Air)

Description: Terrestrial broadcasting refers to the

transmission of TV signals through radio waves to an antenna
on the viewer's television. This type of broadcasting does not
require cable or satellite subscriptions and can be received by
anyone with a suitable antenna.

Signal Transmission: TV signals are transmitted via radio

waves from the broadcast station's transmitter to the receiver
(antenna) of the television set.
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

Examples: National TV stations like ABC, NBC, CBS (U.S.),

BBC (UK), and GMA, TV 5 (Philippines) traditionally
broadcast their content this way.
Advantages:

• Free-to-air

• Easy access for the public

Challenges:

• Limited coverage area, which may require stronger signals or

repeater stations for broader reach.

• Signal quality can vary depending on location and interference.

2. Cable TV Broadcasting

Description: Cable TV involves transmitting television signals

through coaxial cables or fiber optics to a subscriber's
television set. Viewers must subscribe to a cable provider to
access cable TV channels.

Signal Transmission: The cable provider sends TV signals

through a network of cables to the user's home, offering a
wide array of channels.
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

Examples: Sky Cable, Destiny Cable, and Cablelink are

currently the primary cable operators in the country. ...
services available in the Philippines namely:.
Advantages:

• Higher quality signal with fewer interruptions.

• A broad range of channels, including specialized content (sports,

movies, international channels).

Challenges:

• Requires a subscription and specific infrastructure.

• Geographic limitations in some areas.

3. Satellite TV Broadcasting

Description: Satellite TV uses satellites to transmit TV signals

to a dish receiver installed at the viewer's location. Like cable
TV, satellite broadcasting requires a subscription but offers
broader coverage, especially in rural and remote areas.

Signal Transmission: TV signals are sent from the broadcast

station to a satellite, which then relays the signal to the
viewer's satellite dish, where it's received and converted into a
TV signal.
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

Examples: Providers like CignalTV, SkyDirect, Dream Satellite TV.

These satellite TV providers offer a range of content, from free-to-air
channels to premium pay-per-view services, making satellite TV in the
Philippines a flexible and diverse option for viewers.
Advantages:

•Broad coverage, including remote and rural areas where cable or

terrestrial signals may not reach.

•High-definition (HD) channels and global reach.

Challenges:

•Requires installation of satellite dish.

•Potential for signal interference due to weather conditions (e.g.,

rain or storms).
4. Digital TV Broadcasting

Description: Digital TV broadcasting refers to the

transmission of TV signals in digital format rather than the
older analog format. Digital signals offer better quality and
allow for multiple channels to be broadcast over a single
frequency.

Signal Transmission: Digital signals are transmitted in a

series of 1s and 0s, allowing for clearer audio and video,
including high-definition (HD) and 4K resolution.
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

Examples: Transition from analog to digital broadcasting

occurred worldwide. Digital transmission is used by
broadcasters like NBC, BBC, and GMA.
Advantages:

• Higher-quality audio and video (HD, 4K).

• Efficient use of spectrum, allowing multiple channels to be

transmitted on the same frequency.

Challenges:

• Older analog TVs may require a digital converter box.

• Requires compatible receiving devices.

5. Internet TV Broadcasting (Streaming TV)

Description: Internet TV, also known as streaming TV,

delivers TV content over the internet through streaming
services. Unlike traditional broadcasting, internet TV does not
rely on physical infrastructure like cables or satellites but
instead uses internet connections.

Signal Transmission: TV shows, movies, and live events are

streamed via broadband internet connections, and viewers
access content through apps or websites.
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

Examples: Popular services include Netflix, Amazon Prime

Video, YouTube TV, Hulu, Max and Disney+.
Advantages:

• On-demand content with flexibility to watch anytime and

anywhere.

• No need for a traditional TV set; accessible on smartphones,

tablets, computers, and smart TVs.

Challenges:

• Requires a stable internet connection and sufficient bandwidth.

• Subscription fees or potential costs for data usage.

6. Pay-Per-View (PPV) TV Broadcasting

Description: Pay-Per-View TV broadcasting allows viewers to

pay for access to specific events or programs, often used for
live sports events, concerts, or special programs.

Signal Transmission: PPV events are broadcasted via cable,

satellite, or streaming services. Viewers pay a one-time fee to
access the event or content of their choice.
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

Examples: Major sporting events like boxing matches (e.g.,

Floyd Mayweather fights) or exclusive concerts may be
broadcast via PPV.
Advantages:

• Access to premium, exclusive content

• No need for a subscription to regular channels, only pay for the

event

Challenges:

• One-time payment can be expensive for individual events

• Not all events are available for PPV, limiting options

7. HD (High Definition) TV Broadcasting

Description: HD TV broadcasting refers to the transmission of

TV content in high-definition (HD) resolution, typically offering
a picture resolution of 1920x1080 pixels or higher, which
provides a clearer and more detailed image compared to
standard-definition (SD) TV.

4K TV broadcasting refers to the transmission of ultra-high-

definition (UHD) content, offering a resolution of 3840x2160
pixels—four times the resolution of HD.

Signal Transmission: HD broadcasts are available over

terrestrial, cable, satellite, and internet TV platforms, requiring
compatible devices (HD TVs, HD-capable cable boxes, etc.).
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

Examples: Channels like Discovery HD, National

Geographic HD, and ESPN HD offer high-definition content.
Advantages:

• High-quality video and audio

• Enhanced viewing experience, especially on large screens

Challenges:

• Requires HD-compatible devices

• May consume more data or bandwidth for streaming services

8. Interactive TV Broadcasting

Description: Interactive TV broadcasting allows viewers to

engage with the content in real-time, such as through
interactive advertisements, voting in live shows, or accessing
additional content (like news or statistics during sports
events).

Signal Transmission: Content is broadcasted via digital

platforms, cable, or internet, and the interaction is often
facilitated via remote controls, mobile apps, or on-screen
prompts.
EXAMPLE

Stations by Network

PIE Channel is a relatively new television network in the Philippines, launched in 2021. The
network is unique because it aims to be highly interactive, offering a different viewing
experience compared to traditional TV stations. PIE stands for "Pinoy Interactive
Entertainment," and it focuses on creating a more engaging and participatory experience
for its viewers.

PIE Channel offers interactive content, allowing viewers to participate in real-time through
social media, voting, and live interaction with shows. This means viewers can influence
what happens on screen, vote for contestants, and engage with the content on a more
personal level.
Advantages:

• Enhanced viewer engagement and participation

• Access to extra content or features during live events

Challenges:

• Requires compatible interactive technology.

• Limited availability in some regions or platforms.
RADYO: An Essay on Philippine Radio (Elizabeth Enriquez)
TELEBISYON: An Essay on Philippine Television (Clodualdo Del Mundo, Jr.)
Common Uses of Radio and TV
 Common Uses of Radio and Television

Information
• News, public affairs, weather, emergency alerts

Education
• Educational programs, public service shows

Entertainment
• Drama, variety shows, music, reality programs

Social Integration
• National events, elections, cultural programs
Broadcasting in a Convergent
Media Environment
 What is Media Convergence?

• The merging of traditional broadcasting and digital media

• Content flows across:

Radio/TV
Websites
Social media
Streaming platforms
EXAMPLE

• Radio programs streamed on Facebook Live

• TV news clips uploaded to YouTube
• Podcasts derived from radio shows
 Impact on Broadcasting

• Audiences become active participants

• Broadcasters act as content producers across platforms

• Rise of on-demand and mobile consumption

Institutional, Ethical, and
Regulatory Contexts
 Broadcasting as an institution:

Operates within:

• Government regulations
• Industry standards
• Public accountability
 Key Philippine Institutions:

• Congress – broadcast franchises

• NTC – regulation of frequencies

• KBP – self-regulation and standards

• MTRCB – regulation and classification

In the Philippines, Congress grants and approves a broadcast franchise
through legislation.

A broadcast company must apply for a franchise by filing a bill in the House of
Representatives, which undergoes committee hearings and plenary
deliberations to assess the applicant’s qualifications, public service
commitment, and compliance with existing laws.

Once approved by the House, the bill is transmitted to the Senate for a similar
legislative process; if both chambers pass the bill, it is sent to the President
for approval or veto, and upon enactment into law, the franchise authorizes
the company to operate for a fixed period (usually 25 years), subject to
regulation by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is a sole body
that has supervision, adjudication, and control over all
telecommunications services in the Philippines – including radio
stations, wire or wireless telephone systems, cable companies,
satellite television providers, and internet services.

The regulatory agency was formed in July 1979 through former

president Ferdinand Marcos’ Executive Order No. [Link]. 546.
The MTRCB was created through Presidential Decree No. 1986

MTRCB is under the Office of the President that has been mandated to regulate
and classify movies, television programs, related publicity materials and/or
promotional materials thereof.
The Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) is a non-government, non-
profit organization of the broadcast media in the Philippines. Its aims include the
promotion of an independent and free broadcast media, responsible
broadcasting, enhanced public service by broadcasters, advancement of
innovation in broadcasting, and the development of Philippine broadcasting.

The KBP was organized on April 27, 1973.546.

 Core Ethical Principles:

• Accuracy
• Fairness
• Responsibility
• Public service

Key Idea:

• Broadcasting balances freedom of expression with public

interest
THANK YOU