This study examines the evolution of FM radio in the Philippines during the early stages of digital integration, focusing on how traditional radio expands through the incorporation of digital platforms. Anchored on media convergence theory, particularly Jenkins' concept of the flow of content and Negroponte's model of media convergence, the research employed an exploratory and descriptive qualitative design to document observable changes in radio practice. Using case studies of three FM radio stations in Metro Manila—Magic 89.9, Monster RX 93.1, and Wish 107.5—the study analyzes how Radio-Originated Material (ROM) is remediated and distributed as Radio-Originated Content (ROC) across websites, social media, visual platforms, and audio-on-demand streaming services during a defined observation period in 2021. The findings indicate that digital platforms function as auxiliary infrastructures that extend FM radio beyond its traditional constraints of ephemerality, geographic reach, and linear delivery. Rather than replacing terrestrial broadcasting, these platforms enable the circulation of ROC across multiple digital environments, through which radio acquires new characteristics, including visuality, interactivity, on-demand access, and multiplatform distribution. The study demonstrates that, within a convergent media environment, the evolution of FM radio is observable through the expanded circulation of ROC across digital platforms, without displacing or replacing established broadcast practices.

Authors:
River January Rosal, University of the Philippines Diliman Campus, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
River January Rosal is a graduate student at the Asian Center, University of the Philippines. Her research focuses on radio studies, media convergence, and Japanese media. Current project: FM radio and digital integration.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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