Page 40 - AM230929

40 LOCAL NEWS AWEMainta Diabierna, 29 September 2023

Telearuba:

A Pioneering Legacy in Aruba’s Broadcasting History

ARUBA, a Caribbean jewel renowned for its pristine beaches

and vibrant culture, has a unique chapter in its history deeply
intertwined with the world of television. Telearuba, the nation’s
first television network, holds an esteemed place in the hearts of
Arubans as it represents the dawn of homegrown broadcasting
on this idyllic island.

The Origin Story
In the not-so-distant past, Arubans with televisions could only
tune into Venezuelan channels, offering a window into interna-

tional content. However, the desire for something more profound
began to stir within the community—a longing for television
that mirrored their own culture, interests, and experiences. This
longing, nurtured by the collective spirit of the people, set the
stage for the birth of Telearuba.

Telearuba’s Inauguration

The historic date of September 23, 1963, marked the inaugu-
ration of Telearuba, a venture undertaken by a dedicated team
of just 15 individuals. The station embarked on its journey from
humble beginnings, operating out of a modest space within the
Radio Victoria building. It was an endeavor propelled by vision
and determination.

Channel Evolution
Telearuba’s initial broadcast was allocated to Channel 12.

However, in 1969, the station faced interference issues with
Venezuela’s Venevision, prompting a shift to Channel 13. This
strategic move solidified Telearuba’s independent identity on
VHF (P4 A13), laying the foundation for its unique broadcast
footprint.

Technological Advancements

Telearuba embarked on its mission with a single camera but
rapidly expanded its capabilities, acquiring a second camera in the forefront of innovation.
1966. The station’s commitment to innovation was evident in
1973 when it introduced color broadcasting, a groundbreaking Embracing High Definition
achievement for the time. By 1979, Telearuba had entirely tran- In November 2010, Telearuba embraced the era of High Definition
sitioned to color broadcasting, enhancing the viewer experience. (HD) broadcasting by introducing HD content on cable Channel
313. This forward-looking move ensured that viewers could savor
A Milestone in Mobility content with superior picture quality and unmatched clarity.
In 1983, Telearuba achieved another milestone by procuring its

first transmission truck. This acquisition expanded its capabil- The Legacy Continues
ities and facilitated dynamic on-location broadcasts, bringing Throughout its remarkable journey, Telearuba has benefited from
Arubans closer to the heart of the action. the dedication of a professional team committed to providing
the community with top-tier television broadcasts. The station’s
Integration and Progress unwavering pledge to serve Aruba’s cultural and informational
Over the years, Telearuba has adapted to the evolving media land- needs has entrenched it as an indispensable institution in the
scape. In 2004, the station was integrated into Setar Aruba NV, island’s media landscape. Telearuba’s legacy is not only a testa-

a telecommunications powerhouse on the island. This integra- ment to its rich history but also a beacon of promise for the future
tion likely ushered in further advancements in broadcasting tech- of broadcasting in Aruba.
nology and services, underscoring its commitment to staying at Article Source: Roberto Croes