Knowledge Channel, cable operators ink deal to expand DepEd TV reach nationwide

By Mon Rodelas, ABS-CBN News

(L-R) KCFI Platforms and Partnerships Head Danie Sedilla-Cruz, KCFI Vice President Edric Calma, PCTA President Efren Arayata, Jr., and PCTA Chairman Atty. Goering Goerge Paderanga, Jr.

MANILA — Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. (KCFI), on Wednesday, has formalized a partnership with the Philippine Cable and Telecommunications Association (PCTA) to broaden the reach of DepEd TV powered by Knowledge Channel, aiming to bring “curriculum-based” educational content to more learners across the country.

KCFI Vice President and Director of Operations Edric Calma said the initiative builds on proven strategies that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

“These are proven effective with research showing improved learning outcomes and stronger learner engagement. Our content serves not only learners but also their teachers,” Calma said.

KCFI Vice President Edric Calma.

He emphasized that the partnership goes beyond content distribution, positioning broadcast as the backbone of a broader learning system.

“What we are building is not just a channel, but a learning ecosystem. And its core is broadcast. With your support, this ecosystem addresses learning poverty in a meaningful way. Knowledge Channel is the primary media partner of the Department of Education… and Knowledge Channel is DepEd TV,” he added.

He noted that Knowledge Channel content can help address persistent learning gaps among Filipino students.

“Gusto natin mas maging malaki ang reach… Malaki ‘yung problem ng edukasyon natin ‘di ba… Pero ‘yung dala ng Knowledge Channel are curriculum-based shows na mapapadali ang pagkatuto ng pagbabasa, ng Mathematics, ng Sciences, ng Araling Panlipunan, at kung anu-ano pa. So, ito ‘yung bitbit natin para matulungan ang mga schools, ang mga teachers sa pagtuturo, at mga bata para matuto,” Calma explained.

KCFI Vice President Edric Calma presents the Knowledge Channel to the PCTA Board and members.

Calma emphasized that the collaboration with cable operators is expected to significantly widen access to educational materials designed for early childhood development and K-12 learners.

“Sana lahat ng cable operators… ay magdala, mag-carry ng Knowledge Channel para mas marami tayong ma-reach na mga eskwelahan, mga bahay, mga child development centers, sa buong Pilipinas.”

(L-R) KCFI Platforms and Partnerships Head Danie Sedilla-Cruz, KCFI Vice President Edric Calma, PCTA President Efren Arayata, Jr., and PCTA Chairman Atty. Goering Goerge Paderanga, Jr.

For its part, PCTA, which represents more than 300 cable operators nationwide, committed to supporting the delivery and promotion of Knowledge Channel programs in communities across the Philippines.

PCTA official Efren Arayata Jr. said member operators are already helping connect public schools through internet and television services, sometimes at no cost, to support the Department of Education’s learning initiatives.

“We’re committed… to deliver and to support the advocacy of delivering Knowledge Channel content to all, if not all, barangays nationwide,” Arayata said.

Story by Mon Rodelas, ABS-CBN News.