Is television dying? The Philippines’ shift from analog to digital broadcasting explained.

Fact Check: Is Television Dying?
Answer: No. Television is not disappearing. Instead, the Philippines is transitioning from analog to digital television broadcasting, allowing viewers to continue watching their favorite programs through several available options.

On Sunday, November 22nd, 2026, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is scheduled to implement the analog television switch-off in Mega Manila, covering Metro Manila and the provinces of Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, Pampanga, and Bataan.

Under NTC Memorandum Circular No. 005-11-2025, television broadcasters in these areas are required to migrate to the Integrated Services Digital Broadcasting-Terrestrial (ISDB-T) standard.

The transition aims to improve broadcast quality and make more efficient use of the radio-frequency spectrum. Digital television also provides clearer picture and sound quality and supports emergency warning broadcasts.

Here are four options for viewers to continue watching television:
1. Digital Set-Top Box (Digibox): Households using older analog television sets can connect an ISDB-T-compatible digital set-top box to receive free-to-air digital broadcasts. Prices vary depending on the retailer, brand, and model, with estimated prices generally ranging from ₱700 to ₱1,000.

2. Digital-Ready Television: If your television has a built-in digital terrestrial television tuner compatible with the Philippines' ISDB-T standard, you may not need a separate set-top box. Connect a suitable UHF antenna and scan for available digital channels. Reception will depend on local signal availability and antenna placement.

3. Cable or Satellite Television: Viewers can subscribe to a local cable television provider or a direct-to-home satellite television service. These services provide an alternative way to access television channels without relying on an over-the-air analog broadcast signal.

4. Online Streaming Platforms: Viewers can also access selected live broadcasts, news programs, and entertainment shows through official network websites, streaming applications, and social media pages. However, availability varies by broadcaster, program, platform, internet connection, and subscription requirements.

The transition from analog to digital broadcasting does not mean television is disappearing. Rather, it changes how free-to-air television signals are transmitted and received.

Households should check their television equipment and available services before their area's analog signals are switched off.

Ultimately, the transition to digital television is not the end of television. It is an upgrade in how viewers receive and watch broadcasts. The best option depends on their equipment, budget, signal availability, and viewing preferences.

Technology changes, but access to information and entertainment continues.
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Source:
- Philippine Information Agency – https://pia.gov.ph/news/over-462k-metro-cebu-households-still-using-analog-tv-dict/
- Screencap - https://screencap.com.ph/mega-manila-to-switch-off-analog-tv-broadcasts-on-november-22-ntc-says/
- Mediabytes - https://mediabytesph.com/telepinoy/ntc-reiterates-mega-manila-ready-for-nov-22-analog-shutdown-amid-gma-appeal/
- Context.ph - https://context.ph/2026/11/02/gma-seeks-analog-tv-shutdown-delay-cites-unresolved-viewer-aid-plan/
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Photo:
- "You and I Are Polar Opposites" - © Kocha Agasawa/Shueisha • You and I Are Polar Opposites Production Committee.