PLDT, ABS-CBN link up for video streaming

MANILA, Philippines – PLDT Inc. has forged partnerships with ABS-CBN Corp. to provide video-on-demand streaming service iWant TV, as well as with Netflix and Amazon to expand content offerings to subscribers.

Oscar Reyes Jr., PLDT first vice president and head of home operations said in a press conference, PLDT has partnered with ABS-CBN to provide iWant TV to its subscribers.

The service allows users to stream their favorite ABS-CBN shows, both past and presently airing.

News and current affairs shows are also available for streaming through the service.

Apart from ABS-CBN, Reyes said the group also partnered with global internet television network Netflix to give subscribers access to an extensive library of award-winning TV and movie titles.

Depending on the subscription plans, members can create up to four profiles within a single Netflix account.

There are also parental control settings so parents could ensure a safe-viewing experience for their children.

Reyes said PLDT also entered into a tie-up with e-commerce giant Amazon for online shopping.

Through the partnership with Amazon, Filipino book lovers would now be able to enjoy the popular Kindle e-book reader.

PLDT chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan said in the same event, the group is looking to forge more partnerships.

He said the group has offered to provide channels to listed broadcast firm GMA Network Inc. on Cignal TV, the country’s premier direct-to-home satellite provider.

“As you know, we have similar initiatives putting their content on our screens and I think the principal part of discussion with them is we can put their content on one or more than one channels,” he said.

In line with PLDT’s move to put more focus on digital services, the company is investing on improving its data coverage and capacity as well as in initiatives to cater to the subscribers’ needs.