More than one million households in the Mega Manila area that continue to rely on analog signals for watching television are expected to be affected by the planned analog TV shutdown in the region this year.
Based on a study conducted by Kantar Media Philippines, commissioned by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in late 2024, around 1,449,615 households in Mega Manila — or 20% — still use analog signals to watch their favorite television programs.
Meanwhile, the research found a strong penetration of digital television in the region. Around 4,998,775 households, or 68.9%, are already using digital terrestrial television (DTT) boxes such as ABS-CBN TV Plus, GMA Affordabox, and Sulit TV of TV5 Network.
Another 797,599 households, or about 11%, are subscribed to pay TV operators including Sky Cable, Cignal TV, and other local cable providers.
According to the research firm’s interpretation, Mega Manila is largely prepared for the scheduled analog shutdown this year, although the remaining 20% of households that could still be affected should not be overlooked.
“Mega Manila shows a high level of readiness for the analog TV shut-off, with a significant majority of households already using digital TV services,” said Kantar Media.
“However, a concerted effort is required to ensure that vulnerable households, particularly those in the DE socioeconomic class, are not left behind in the transition.”
The research group also recommended that the DICT and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), which will lead the analog TV shutdown this year, take steps to ensure a smooth transition.
“The DICT can facilitate a smooth and inclusive ASO (analog shut-off), maximizing the benefits of digital TV for all citizens.”
Mega Manila covers 16 cities and one municipality in the National Capital Region, as well as nearby provinces including Pampanga, Bulacan, Bataan, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal.