Phia Oac peak, located 70km north of Cao Bang city, and standing nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, is known as the "roof" of Cao Bang province. (Photo: Duy Thai/VOV-Northeast)

Phia Oac peak, located 70km north of Cao Bang city, and standing nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, is known as the "roof" of Cao Bang province. VOV first established a 10kW FM transmitter station on this summit in 2007 to disseminate information to ethnic minority communities within Cao Bang province and other northeastern border localities. Ha Quoc Luat, resident of Thanh Cong commune, said: “I frequently listen to programs covering law, economic issues, social matters, and national security and defense. The VOV broadcasts are highly relevant to the needs of local people and ethnic minorities.”

Du Thi Xay, resident of Thanh Cong commune, shared: "I regularly tune into programs on ethnic languages and current affairs. They provide instruction on scientific and technical advancements in afforestation, agricultural development, and animal husbandry. Residents acquire knowledge and information that aligns with the customs and practices of the local Tay and Nung ethnic groups."
VOV President Do Tien Sy and delegates attend the inauguration ceremony of the Phia Oac FM transmitter station. (Photo: Duy Thai/VOV-Northest)

The station underwent significant upgrades, including the construction of a two-storey building to house the transmitter and the maintenance of a 75-meter self-standing antenna pole. Substantial investment was poured in four 30kW FM transmitters, a large capacity antenna, medium and low voltage power supply network, cooling system, and auxiliary equipment.

In addition, infrastructure was upgraded to ensure high-quality radio programs produced by VOV and by the Cao Bang Radio, TV, and Newspaper, keeping all ethnic groups in Cao Bang and neighboring provinces informed, VOV President Do Tien Sy said: “Over its 80 years of growth and development, VOV has been a steadfast companion of the nation, excelling in its historical mission as the voice of the Party, the State, and the people. On behalf of VOV’s leadership, I entrust the Northern Broadcasting Station with managing and operating equipment safely, continuously, and efficiently. I look forward to the continued support of leaders at all levels and people of Cao Bang province, so that this project will achieve even greater success.”

VOV President Do Tien Sy and delegates visit the technical room at Phia Oac FM transmitter station, Cao Bang. (Photo: Duy Thai/VOV-Northest)

Despite the harsh climate and transportation, the project was completed on schedule and meets quality standards, thanks to the dedication of VOV and the provincial support. After a trial period, the station was officially inaugurated on August 8.

Le Hai Hoa, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the People's Committee of Cao Bang province, said: “The project’s upgrade not only expands coverage and improves information quality but also kindle aspiration. They bring the Party and State’s voice to every home, mountain, and stream so as to foster consensus and unite ethnic groups into a cohesive community."

"Cao Bang province will work with VOV to develop programming tailored to local needs, ensuring that residents, from central towns to remote hamlets, have access to timely, accurate, and reliable information. This collaboration is both a responsibility and a source of pride and affection for Cao Bang, reaffirming VOV’s role as a trusted companion of Cao Bang’s ethnic communities,” Mr. Hoa said.

Facing the headwinds, the “beacon of information” atop Phia Oac stands unwavering, delivering VOV broadcasts to ethnic minority people daily. The station serves as a “soft milestone” on the border, quietly and persistently contributing to protecting sovereignty, preserving peace, and boosting socio-economic development of Cao Bang province and the northeastern region.