SkyCable sees 33% growth in subscriber base in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - Cable operator, SkyCable expects to grow its subscriber-base in Cebu of at least 33 percent this year, following the company’s effort to provide affordable Cable TV subscription and improved quality.

The Lopez-owned cable TV operator recently introduced digital pay TV to provide cable subscribers in Cebu the best and widest array in digital home entertainment content to suit individual preference for greater viewing pleasure.

At present, SkyCable recorded a total subscription count of a little over 50 thousand, this is 10 percent of the company’s over 500 thousand subscribers nationwide, said Ronnie L. Pacio SkyCable director for Visayas operations.

Amid the competition, SkyCable is leveraging its leadership position in digital TV and on its aggressive move to be the forefront of providing consumers with variety of TV content to watch, this was made possible when it moved from the analog technology to digital through the DigiBox.

The DigiBox is a digital set-top box that connects to a TV which turns the digital signal into content that can be viewed on the television screen.

Aside from providing clear and sharp video images and high quality sound, DigiBox has made possible the customization of subscription packages.

This time, subscribers have to option to what particular channel to subscribe, and customize the monthly subscription rate.

The company’s foray into digital has made it now possible for every member of the family to pick and choose which show and program they want to watch according to their individual viewing preference.

This self-selection and customization has become the underlying mantra of today’s technology-savvy consumer, said Pacio.

According to Pacio, Metro Cebu is now 90 percent covered with digital cable technology. The non-digital areas include Minglanilla, and Naga. However, he said SkyCable will complete its rehabilitation program to convert all areas into digital before the summer ends.

“There are still untapped homes in Metro Cebu, or pockets of areas that cable connections are not yet feasible, but we are now expanding,” he said in a press conference held at the Alpa City Suites hotel.

So far, the highest number of subscribers in Cebu is in the area of Banilad and Talamban.

“Our plan of digitization of cable services augurs well with our vision of ensuring delivery of superior TV viewing experience for our customers and help bring about new found television intelligence that makes it possible for subscribers to tailor-fit their viewing preferences,” he added.

SkyCable packages range from P780 (complete package) a month, to as low as P280 per month.