In his desire to improve our deteriorating educationnal system, Sen. Edgardo J. Angara called for more educational and cultural programs on Philippine television, especially on government-subsidized networks.

“Because of the limited allocation for less advertising-intensive educational programs in private and profit-oriented networks, there is a need for our government channels to increase airtime devoted to children’s educational shows,” stressed Angara, former president of the University of the Philippines (UP).

Angara lamented that the economics of TV advertising has overshadowed the noble intention of creating a more stimulating medium for children to learn from. “Instead of simply showing cartoon characters and animation as entertainment to our children, we must keep in mind that their values are honed from what they see onscreen. Hence, the need to provide materials with more educational value on air,” he added.

At present the government owned and controlled TV networks are Channel 4, RPN 9 and IBC 13.

Angara was among the pioneer creators of educational TV shows in the 1990s, and has always been an advocate of improving the country’s education system. Aside from his legislative work that gives emphasis, among others, to education and research and development, Angara is a renowned patron of the arts and culture.

Currently children are exposed to programs like Knowledge Channel but network operators are not able to maximize the programs due to limited advertising revenues.

He called on government-operated or government-subsidized channels, “Let us maximize our capability to reach our children both in the urban and rural areas and provide high-quality educational and cultural programs," Angara said.