Media giant GMA Network has further widened its reach across the Philippines by adding six more broadcast stations in the first half of the year to bring its total to 101 stations nationwide. In a statement, the firm said it now has 79 analog broadcast stations and 22 digital TV broadcast stations, which include its newest DTT station in San Pablo, Laguna. Other digital TV transmitter stations added this year were in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte; Mt. Amuyao, Mountain Province; Mt. Kitanglad, Bukidnon; Olongapo City, Zambales; and Iligan City, Lanao del Norte. Further, through the Network’s digital receivers, GMA Affordabox and GMA Now, more GMA viewers are able to have a clearer and more vibrant TV viewing experience. Earlier this year, the Network, through its regional arm GMA Regional TV, also launched GMA Ilocos Norte station – its 12th regional station to date. It is GMA Network’s fifth regional station in Luzon after GMA Dagupan, GMA Ilocos Sur, GMA Bicol, and GMA Batangas. GMA also made all its shows available in widescreen format, where favorite Kapuso programs are in a wider scope in terms of what can be seen on screen. The 16:9 widescreen format is now available on GMA and GTV, as well as on digital channels Heart of Asia, Hallypop, I Heart Movies, and Pinoy Hits. The network is undertaking various initiatives to expand its revenue base such as growing its free TV offerings, enter into partnerships, and further develop its digital presence. GMA Chairman Felipe Gozon noted earlier that, “We expanded our free TV beyond GMA so that the No. 2 station, GTV, and the 4 DTT channels are giving us revenue streams even higher than past year,” he said. Gozon added that, “Regional TV is also gaining traction, from both national and local advertisers, who want to be more selective in advertising in their priority areas.”