Gatchalian warns of difficulties in utilizing unused frequencies for TV-based learning

FILE PHOTO–Senator Win Gatchalian. (Albert Calvelo/Senate PRIB)

MANILA, Philippines—Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Saturday continued to push for the use of television and radio-based instruction as part of the Department of Education’s blended learning approach during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The legislator said that using such platforms, which has been his advocacy, is the fastest way to reach every student while they stay at the safety of their own homes.

“I have been advocating for TV and radio-based instructions for this year’s blended learning. It is the most efficient way to reach every learner in the safety of their homes,” said Gatchalian in a statement.

“While the government can utilize unused frequencies to supplement Deped’s self-learning modules, there are technical issues that might hinder this utilization.

The government has backed the idea of using ABS-CBN’s frequencies for distance learning amid the pandemic after the House of Representatives denied the network giant a franchise renewal.

Using ABS-CBN’s facilities, however, pose difficulties as Gatchalian pointed out.

Gatchalian said broadcast equipment that would be used should correspond with the specific frequency which would also need qualified technical people to operate.

Another issue is the quality of equipment and broadcast facilities.

“To reach all households nationwide, a broadcast entity needs very powerful transmitters to deliver the content. The operator of the frequency should be ready to invest in very high-tech equipment to maximize the nationwide reach,” said Gatchalian.

There’s also the issue of getting permission from the private owners of ABS-CBN to use their facilities.

CFC