Jorge Hidalgo de WAPA
WAPA Media, the new multi-platform entity that encompasses Hemisphere Media Group’s TV, radio, digital, live events, and podcasting properties in Puerto Rico, aims to become a one-stop-shop for media acquisition from agencies and clients of the island, according to Jorge Hidalgo, its president, and CEO.
“In Puerto Rico, these companies have done well. In radio, WKAQ AM and KQ105 FM (formerly of TelevisaUnivision) have historically been number one and number two in their segments, respectively; WAPA TV has been the leader in the audience and results in the last 14 years; WAPA Deportes the only TV channel devoted to sports in Puerto Rico; WAPA América is the only channel that is offered to Puerto Ricans outside the island in the US, and now WAPA Digital leads its space. What we are trying to do with the creation of WAPA Media is to be a one-stop shop for agencies and clients who want to advertise. If we combine all these properties, we have a reach each week of 82% of Puerto Ricans over 18 years of age,” explained Hidalgo.
He added that the move intends to strengthen the growth of the local Puerto Rican product, both for the island and to export, with the digital, podcasts, and FAST channels, with endless things that they plan to develop and release in the next few months. “All these media have an editorial line that has worked and has remained independent. The only difference is when planning big events – politics, entertainment, and sports – that we can do it under a single umbrella so that everyone benefits.”
Hidalgo announced that they are working with FAST, planning the launch of the FAST channel, WAPA+. “The idea is to launch it before the end of 2023,” he said.
“There is room to improve and grow on the island. In the 1970s and 1980s, Puerto Rico was a cradle of programming for Puerto Ricans and Hispanics, but this was lost. With WAPA Media, we seek to grow and fill that void and offer the world the Puerto Rican talent so important a few years ago, and we believe it can be again. It has always been on the radar to ramp up original production,” he noted.
“WAPA Media is a significant milestone for Hemisphere Media Group, and we are delighted to bring this innovative multiplatform media company to Puerto Rico. With the addition of the two main radio stations in Puerto Rico, we are expanding our commitment to bring the highest quality content to audiences through all relevant media channels. With WAPA Media, we are redefining the Puerto Rican media landscape and consolidating our position as the destination of choice, both for consumers and for Puerto Rican advertisers,” said Alan J. Sokol, CEO of Hemisphere Media Group.
Hemisphere Media Group names Jorge Hidalgo as SVP of Operations
