Netflix dominates video streaming platforms
Netflix’s domination in the world market of subscription-based video streaming has also taken its course in the country, with a market share of 31 percent as of the first quarter of 2022. While cable channels still have a large share of viewership, Filipino audiences are increasingly accessing video streaming platforms that provide greater content variety, often ad-free. In 2021, it was estimated that about 6.4 million Filipinos were using video streaming services. Apart from Netflix, other SVoD services such as Prime Video, iflix, HBO Go, and Viu are also gaining popularity.Aside from international streaming platforms, local OTT platforms have also gained viewership in the Philippines, with television networks operating or partnering with streaming platforms. ABS-CBN Corporation, which lost its television franchise in 2020, streamed its shows and teledramas on its OTT content platform iWant. Initially launched in 2015 as a platform that shows the network’s regional television channels, it was relaunched in 2018 to show original content, like Netflix and iflix. At the beginning of September 2020, iWant merged with TFC Online, a platform for overseas Filipino workers to watch ABS-CBN programs online and was launched as iWantTFC. The platform offers selected titles for free and others on a pay-per-view basis. Television network GMA Network has also tapped the streaming platform iQiyi to stream its programs and shows.
Music and game streaming
Apart from video streaming, music streaming is also among the top online activities of Filipino internet users. Free and paid music streaming services such as Spotify, Deezer, and Apple Music were among the well-known platforms. Music streaming services consumption in the Philippines has seen growth in recent years, with the number of music streamers forecasted to reach 6.3 million in 2027. Apart from listening to music, podcasts were also among the leading media content consumed in the country.Similarly, in a country with an increasing number of online gamers, it is perhaps unsurprising that game streaming is also gaining momentum. Game streaming is not only a way to connect with fellow gaming enthusiasts but a possible revenue-generating hobby. A recent survey shows that a typical gaming session of Filipino online gamers lasts about one to two hours. Among the leading platforms for game streaming are Facebook, YouTube, and Twitch.
