The NBTC board approved the development approach for the Emergency Warning System (EWS) on the digital terrestrial television network. Meanwhile, the television operations roadmap remains under review.
On 24 Dec, reporters noted that the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) acknowledged a study report and preparations for developing the Emergency Warning System (EWS) via the digital terrestrial television network. The NBTC board approved the principle of the operational approach and financial support framework for licensees of broadcasting or television businesses to provide services on the national-level digital terrestrial television frequency network (MUX) that have the necessary network equipment. This support includes funding for API development and procurement of related equipment, using money from the Public Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund (USF). The NBTC Office was assigned to proceed with implementation.
Next, the NBTC Office will submit detailed project proposals to the NBTC board. If approved, it will be forwarded to the USF board. Then, licensees with ready network equipment can request financial support within a budget limit of 15 million baht each. The pilot support will cover two ready licensees: Channel 5 and Thai PBS, which operate a total of three networks and 15 channels. The warning system is expected to reach 9.8 million households.
Professor Emeritus Dr. Pirongrong Ramasut, NBTC's television affairs expert, said the EWS serves as a supplementary alert system that helps close gaps left by the Cell Broadcast system. It leverages the strengths of service coverage and accessibility for people who may lack mobile phones or have incompatible devices. If people are watching television at the time, they will receive warnings quickly and can promptly follow up on the information. Therefore, the sooner the system can be launched, the faster it can enhance public safety.
Previously, in 2025, Channel 5 conducted three EWS tests: 1. A closed test during the EWS working group meeting on 14 May 2025; 2. A closed test during the EWS press conference on 24 Oct 2025; 3. An open test on Channel 5's actual digital TV network in Phayao and Chumphon provinces on 13 Nov 2025 from 00:00 to 01:00. All three tests were highly successful.
Professor Emeritus Dr. Pirongrong added that at the NBTC board meeting no. 38/2568, held over 23-24 Dec 2025 with more than 80 agenda items including 24 pending matters, one key item was the draft roadmap for Thailand's television and radio broadcasting operations (2026-2030). This roadmap prepares for the expiration of digital terrestrial TV licenses in 2029 and explores feasible and appropriate methods for terrestrial television access via digital platforms (National Streaming Platform). Also discussed was the draft operational plan under the plan to provide universal basic broadcasting services and social services (2023-2025).
He said, “We hope the television operations roadmap will be brought forward for consideration since the industry has been repeatedly asking about it. As the digital TV licenses approach expiration, both the NBTC and the industry must prepare in advance. There are only two years left for MUX licenses and about three years for channel licenses. The draft roadmap shows urgent tasks starting early 2026. We can no longer afford delays.”