On its relaunch during its 11th year in broadcast, UNTV aspires to become a part of one’s life through its intensified public service works and programs. Starting August 25th this year, the public service channel has been renamed as UNTV Life.

“We aim na maging bahagi na ng buhay ng tao ang UNTV (We aim that UNTV becomes a part of a person’s life),” UNTV-BMPI CEO Daniel Razon hinted even before the official launch.

The anniversary event held recently at the SMX Convention Center kicked off the station’s new brand with the grandest public service fair and news and rescue summit.

Mr. Public Service Kuya Daniel Razon introduces the bigger, better UNTV News and Rescue Team during the station’s 2nd Rescue Summit. (Photo courtesy of Photoville International)

UNTV Public Service Fair

Bigger than its social service offerings last year, UNTV’s 2nd Public Service Fair pooled more than 20 government agencies to help people get their application and obtain government documents faster.

Hundreds saved time and got their NBI clearance, voter’s registration, SSS, and PhilHealth memberships faster all at once.

“If we apply directly in these government offices, it’s such a hassle because of the long queues, not to mention that you have to be there before sunrise,” said Denver Pangilinan, who was one of the thousands who availed the services. “Here, the process is very fast.”

The Philippine Statistics Authority also issued birth, marriage, and death certificates in its booth while Philippine Post Office sped up the processing of postal IDs.

Moreover, the free legal service was also bigger this time. The Department of Justice, Public Attorney’s Office, and the Supreme Court joined the “Law Center ni Kuya” in giving legal advice.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and Philippine National Police (PNP), among others, also made their offices available to the public.

UNTV-BMPI CEO Daniel Razon tours the UNTV News and Rescue summit with National Capital Region Police Officer Chief Joel Pagdilao and AFP Spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla, Jr. (Photo courtesy of Photoville International)

The New Face of UNTV News And Rescue

With news and rescue being the prime advocacy of the station, UNTV stretched its life-saving efforts with the addition of Underwater Rescue team, along with hundred more rescuers across the country. Actor and CMAS-certified scuba diving instructor Jess Lapid, Jr. was appointed head of the newly-added team.

Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS), also known as the World Underwater Federation, is an international federation that sets world-class standards for underwater sports events and activities. UNTV News and Rescue partners with CMAS Philippines for water rescue trainings and operations.

“UNTV News And Rescue team is ready, with God’s help, and equipped with the knowledge and advance skill in rescue operations. And with the help of God, we will be able to meet the tasks ahead of us,” Kuya Daniel told the audience as he presented the new rescuers.

The seasoned broadcaster also announced UNTV’s America-like 911 hotline. For emergencies, people can simply dial 911-UNTV or (02) 911-8688 for assistance.

The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) showcases its earthquake simulator to let visitors experience an earthquake drill. (Photo courtesy of Photoville International)

2nd UNTV Rescue Summit

Apart from pooling social service agencies, UNTV also assembled rescue groups in the Philippines for its 2nd Rescue Summit.

A huge display of rescue gears and paraphernalia occupied parts of the SMX Convention Center as part of UNTV’s advocacy to instill awareness to people about the various equipment used in rescue operations.

Seminars and lectures on calamity preparedness were conducted during the summit. The MMDA showcased its Mobile Earthquake Simulators that let visitors experience and mimic the proper steps to take when a quake strikes while they are within a building structure.

MMDA General Manager Corazon Jimenez, Director Renato U. Solidum of PHIVOLCS, and Executive Director Liza Fidelis Cañada of the Office of the Civil Defense were among who spoke at the seminar.

“I would like to commend UNTV for its initiative to involve various government agencies and organizations on how to better prepare and respond to natural disasters,” PAG-ASA Acting Administrator Dr. Vicente Malano said in a message read by Dra. Esperanza Cayanan, the department’s Weather Division chief.

Malano also acknowledged Kuya Daniel for UNTV’s news-and-rescue efforts, which he congratulated for making the station become “one of the youngest among the most awarded of Philippine networks.”

UNTV shows’ hosts and cast celebrate UNTV’s rebranding as UNTV Life as the station turns 11 in broadcast and public service. (Photo courtesy of Photoville International)

The 11th Anniversary Concert

A big concert concluded UNTV’s anniversary event. Wish FM 107.5, UNTV’s media partner, brought to stage various popular musicians and performers including Rachel Alejandro, Jayson Fernandez, and Joshua Dionisio.

Kris Lawrence, Philipp Go, Leah Patricio, and Asia’s Got Talent grand finalist Gwyneth Dorado, and many others also performed.

The event also highlighted UNTV’s newly-formatted programs like Get It Straight with Daniel Razon, Good Morning Kuya, Istorya, and Bread and Butter.

Written by Ma. Therese Quita & Hazel David