Without a doubt, Japan has TV shows that will mesmerize even the most monolingual of all gaijins or foreigners. It also has broadcasting technology that makes DVD resolution a thing of the past.  Yet, for us Filipinos, nothing beats the sights and sounds of home, even if it means virtually traveling back to the past through watching low-definition videos.

 

Thanks to the latest technologies though, there are now ways for you to watch Eat Bulaga, TV Patrol, Convergence, and other Filipino shows even in Japan. 

 If you have a broadband Internet connection, you can watch through websites that legally provide recorded video clips of Filipino TV shows.  ABS-CBN and GMA offer free video clips on their website.  If you want live streaming and not just pre-recorded videos, Net 25 is highly recommended for you.

 

You should not expect much viewing pleasure with free online videos though.  As the popular cliche goes, you really get what you pay for with this method.  That is, if you get something at all.  Free online videos not only come in low quality but also in short duration such that you have to play not a few clips just to finish a single show. Worse, the show that you really want to watch may not be completely available. 
 

 If you want better viewing experience, you should consider paid subscription services. TFC or The Filipino Channel of ABS-CBN is available in Japan through SkyPerfect TV or IPTV.  GMA and Net 25 are both available through Access TV service.

 

With subscription-based methods, expect to pay around 3,500 to 4,000 yen (approximately 1,750 to 2,000 pesos) per month on top of the initial fees. 
 

If you want the video quality of traditional subscription service but not its expensive monthly fee, you're in luck because there is another option available for you through TFC Now.  However, if you plan to use this service, you have to pay attention to a few caveats.

 

To use the TFC Now service, you need a relatively fast computer with the necessary software (Windows OS, Windows Media Player 11, browser plug-ins) installed.  You also have to watch on your computer monitor.   If you want to watch on a bigger screen, you may need to buy a bigger monitor or find a way to connect your large-screen TV to your computer.

 

If you can do away with the above-mentioned limitations, this service could well become the most cost-effective solution for watching Filipino TV in Japan because it enables you to choose a package that will fit your budget.  
 

We are very fortunate that there are now many options available to us Filipinos in Japan.  A few years ago, you would have had to buy VHS or VCD from Filipino stores or borrow from friends coming from the Philippines in order to watch Filipino TV shows.

 

Do you know of other legal options for watching Filipino TV shows?  Please share them by leaving comments to this article.