Preparations are underway to construct a multimedia center in the headquarters of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the North Philippines. According to Larry Feir, communication director for the church in Manila, the center will produce television programs to be carried throughout metropolitan Manila, the capital of the Philippines.

The church’s plans to expand its use of media has received a boost from the National Telecommunication Commission granting a license and air frequency rights to Graceland Broadcasting Network (GBN), owned by businessman Manuel Billiones.  In turn, GBN has issued a franchise to Three Angels Broadcasting Network (3ABN), an independent Adventist broadcasting ministry based in Thompsonville, Illinois, USA, to operate a full-power, 24-hour-a-day television station.

Construction of the television station building and installation of antenna and power plant are presently underway in Antipolo City, in the northeastern part of metro Manila.  3ABN expects the station will be fully installed by March. The agreement between 3ABN and GBN to operate the station is for a 10-year period with an option to renew. 

The station’s daily schedule will include locally produced presentations offered as part of 3ABN’s programming, says Feir.  Adventist programs carried by 3ABN include presentations on Bible prophecy, lifestyle, health and family issues, as well as music and children’s programs.

On December 6, 2000, groundbreaking for the station brought together representatives of the National Telecommunication Commission, 3ABN officials, and church leaders.

“We praise God for the awesome responsibility of being licensed by the government to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to the 24 million inhabitants of metro Manila,” says Danny Shelton, president of 3ABN. The new station will be known as Channel 45.