Broadcast firm pushes shorter gap between FM stations

Broadcast company Media One Broadcasting Corp. (Media One) is pressing for a resolution on the proposed changes to the separation standard in the FM spectrum, saying the move will hasten the growth of the radio industry in the country.

Media One vice president for legal affairs Sheila Quien said in a statement that there is no technical impediment to shortening the gap between FM stations from 800 kilohertz (khz) to 400 khz.

"It has already been proven in countries like the US, UK, and Singapore that a 400-khz separation, even on analog technology, is feasible and workable. New hybrid technology that has just been approved by the US Federal Communications Commission, will enhance the reception and protection of radio signals," Quien said.

"Our own test broadcast last August proved that at a 400 khz separation, there is no interference to other stations nor to listeners using existing radio receivers. We have signed documents from our adjacent station and the NTC attesting to this. This is a fact that the KBP conveniently ignores. This is also the best evidence against their claim on interference," she added.

In order to finally resolve the issue, Media One has expressed its willingness to subject itself to yet another propagation test.

"The best way for NTC to serve public interest is to open the industry to more players. KBP’s opposition is not based on fact. If we conduct a test and interference exists at a separation of 400 khz, then the issue becomes moot and academic. If not, then the NTC should open the FM spectrum to legitimate and deserving broadcasters," Quien said.

The NTC had earlier prepared a draft memo circular that would amend the regulation on FM separation. However, the powerful Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) has strongly opposed the move, saying that 800 kHz is the standard separation to protect listeners and broadcasters from possible interference.

Meanwhile, the House committee on transportation and communication is set to conduct its own hearings on the issue.

Some legislators were alarmed over the growing backlog in the list of grantees of legislative franchises for TV and radio stations because of the NTC’s alleged inaction on the granting of certificates of public convenience and necessity (CPCNs).

"Media One is only one in a growing list of broadcasting companies that have yet to be given the green light to operate, although these companies had long been granted franchises by Congress. The NTC should not cave in to any pressure from KBP. It is time for the commission to be proactive. There is no higher interest than public interest, and to this, private entities must bow and yield," Quien added. – Mary Ann Reyes