Lifting Up the Nation

SSince its invention in 1895, the radio has been pioneering its way through the centuries. Yet, even with the newest innovations, the radio still holds sway over more than one area of the world—and what’s so special about it is how it brings information to those who would otherwise have none. One example is Pilipinas Ngayon, a long-running television and radio show with a colorful history.

Pilipinas Ngayon Na started as a radio segment. Six months after, it went on air as a TV show. Two awards later, it went into print as well. To date, Pilipinas Ngayon Na can also be seen on IZTV, Sky Cable Channel 72, TV Plus Channel 27, and GMA Affordabox Channel 32, and it can also be uploaded on Youtube and Facebook live stream.

“Pilipinas Ngayon Na program primarily tackles the importance of health and wellness. It focuses on complete physical, mental, emotional, social, financial, and spiritual well-being,” says Robert. According to him, their goal is “to deliver timely, accurate, inspiring, uplifting and truthful information to listeners and viewers.”

Unfortunately, many places in the Philippines need more resources, so it is harder to bridge the gap between being unknowing and informed. There needs to be more technology, especially in the country’s rural areas. Many places suffer from poverty, and television can be rare. “In the cities, people have access to many platforms, but in the provinces, it is different,” explains Robert. “But rural folks still have the radio, can you imagine that? Our signal is very strong, so it can reach many provinces, and we have reporters everywhere to give us all the information.”

The Southeast Asia Foundation gave the show an award for positive wholesome programming two years in a row. “Our arts and culture segment recognizes and promotes new and upcoming artists as well as celebrates the established ones,” explains Robert. “The show is like a launching pad that opens more doors of opportunities for our guests from various fields of endeavor. In addition, we showcase our very own pool of Filipino talents to let the world know about their respective gift to offer.”

Eliza adds, “Our objective is for our show to become a channel of blessing to our audience to gain through the valuable information, knowledge, and wisdom shared by guest speakers every episode.”

What makes this tandem extra special? The couple exemplifies respect. “First, we accept each other’s uniqueness.