GMA Network sees full-year 2013 growth at 10%

GMA Network Inc. sees full-year growth of around 10 percent on better ratings and lower programming costs.

 

"Historically, second half is higher than first half. We don't see why that won't continue," chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon told analysts and reports during a press conference on the Network's first half results in Quezon City.

 

"I think close to 10 percent in earnings at the end of the year. Kung suswertehin it could be more, dahil mas konti na ang expenses namin. Inabutan na namin ang kalaban sa rating," he said in an interview with reporters.

 

At the same press conference, president and COO Gilberto Duavit said they hope that the trend in the first half will continue on revenues and total profitability side.

 

"Programming changes that have been lined up this second semester do not cost as much as those aired in the first quarters. We see a gradual reduction of programming costs," he added.

 

In the absence of political advertisements, Gozon said "quality of programs and ratings" will help sustain the Network's second half performance.

 

"Our basis is ratings” the chairman noted. “Pantay na kami sa NUTAM (National Urban Television Audience Measurement) ratings. Ang momentum ay nasa amin ngayon. I'm expecting na malalampasan namin... 

 

“When that happens? Magiging mura ang aming programs. At pag mura yung programs at mas may madaming nanonood, definitely yung advertisers sayo ilalagay yung ads," Gozon noted.

 

As of August 12, GMA is leading in NUTAM, he added.

 

In terms of ratings, Duavit also said the "anticipation is that the ratings will further improve for the balance of the year." — VS, GMA News