New Asian VOD Service to launch in the Philippines

Singapore Telecommunications (SingTel), Sony Pictures Television and Warner Bros Entertainment have jointly established a video streaming company, HOOQ, in Southeast Asia, launching the service in the Philippines later this month.

The Philippines launch in partnership with Globe Telecom is the first step, with the service to be rolled out across Singtel’s network in Indonesia, India and Thailand during the first quarter of 2015.

In the Philippines, subscribers will be able to enjoy unlimited streaming access and offline viewing options to some 10,000 blockbuster movies and TV series. This includes titles from partners Sony and Warner Bros. Local film and TV content will also be available through partnerships with the country’s top studios, such as GMA, Viva Communications, Regal Entertainment and ABS-CBN.

Peter G. Bithos, HOOQ’s CEO, said, “Across the emerging economies, people have amazing stories and love stories. However, a few billion people have no quality way of seeing the best stories from Hollywood or their local market. HOOQ will change that. HOOQ will change the way people in emerging markets consume and enjoy entertainment. The Philippines is a natural first market for us. Filipinos’ dual love of local and Hollywood content combined with their digital savviness makes the Philippines a perfect place for us to start.”

Jonathan Auerbach, Singtel’s CEO for group digital life, added, “Following the launch in the Philippines, HOOQ will be rolled out across Asia soon. The rapid adoption of connected devices means more people in Asia are able to access the Internet anywhere and at any time, driving demand for compelling content that enhances their digital lives. HOOQ is set to change the way people across the region consume and enjoy entertainment.”