In the second quarter of 2014, GMA Network’s flagship radio station Super Radyo DZBB has conquered new heights as it became the No. 1 radio station in Mega Manila.
From its humble beginnings in the historical Calvo Building on Escolta Street in Manila, DZBB has since grown in reach, as well as ratings, eventually becoming one of the most awarded radio stations in the country.
And, despite the many challenges posed by the advent of new media, radio’s resilience to the changing times proves to be a feat.
“Radio still is the only real-time medium. And it will continue to be so,” says GMA consultant for Radio Operations Mike Enriquez. “Radio is the companion of Filipinos from the wee small hours of the morning up to the deep of the night.”
Enriquez explains that radio continues to attract listeners across the country more than any other medium because “radio is the most personal and friendliest medium.”
“And, in the case of DZBB, the most credible source of news,” he shares. “Because radio is there, especially when you need it — in good times and in bad, ‘walang iwanan.’ And the listeners know and feel that.”
When asked how the station has persisted over the years, Enriquez replies, “The day belongs to those who are nimble and quick.”
“DZBB incessantly feels the pulse of the audience, of media consumers and of the entire media landscape. It is a 24/7 watch,“ he explains. “More importantly, we make changes in our operations the moment we see the need for such changes.”
Staying true to its founder Robert Stewart’s vision of giving the public local news and information, DZBB’s strength lies in its news and public affairs programming, as well as its commitment to providing Serbisyong Totoo.
Enriquez lists the following as the factors that give DZBB an edge over its competitors: “Credibility, its Serbisyong Totoo culture, its team spirit and excellent morale, management support and then again, its credibility,” he reiterates.
Based on the latest Nielsen radio research report, DZBB’s highest-rating programs are all in the morning block where listenership is at its highest levels. These include Umaga Na Balita Na at 4 a.m.; Dobol B Balitang Balita, 5 a.m.; Saksi Sa Dobol B, 6 a.m.; Dobol A sa Dobol B, 10 a.m.; and Easy Easy Lang, 11 a.m.
Umaga Na Balita Na, hosted by Carlo Mateo and Mao dela Cruz, is DZBB’s earliest newscast which offers a comprehensive report of the hottest news gathered overnight. Reporting news ahead of its counterparts, it keeps listeners updated with the latest issues to start the day.
Dobol B Balitang B, on the other hand, is a news commentary on burning issues and headline stories. The program is anchored by veteran radio personality Melo del Prado.
Likewise, Saksi sa Dobol B also features relevant issues and current news injected with sharp analysis and commentary from its tough and spirited host, the multi-awarded broadcast journalist Enriquez.
As a segue to the next program, Enriquez is joined by the witty tandem of Dobol A sa Dobol B hosts Ali Sotto and Arnold Clavio for the funny yet substantive satire segment called Jeng Jeng, which is a musical commentary composed by Enriquez, Sotto and Clavio and set to the tune of popular songs.
Dobol A sa Dobol B is essentially a political satire program. While the news is presented in a casual and light manner, Sotto and Clavio’s incisive analysis of current issues makes for a lively discussion on-air.
Meanwhile, Easy Easy Lang, hosted by feisty TV and radio anchors Susan Enriquez and Lala Roque, is a family-oriented lifestyle program that deals with a variety of health, wellness and social issues.
On becoming the leading station in Mega Manila, Enriquez credits the hard work from everyone in the station. “Very hard work,” he expresses.
However, he also acknowledges the key factors that helped them rise to the top spot: “Tenacity, team work, openness to change, its strong adherence to balance and fairness, discipline and most all, the fun!”
As for the station’s plans to maintain their position, Enriquez says in jest, “We always have plans. But since this will come out in The Philippine STAR, I won’t tell you.”
This just in: As Mike was being interviewed, Nielsen Research released its August 2014 radio survey showing that DZBB continues to be the No. 1 AM station in Mega Manila.
Congratulations and more power, DZBB!