TV Direct 13 (also known as TVD13 on digital platforms) is a television channel based in Curaçao, a Caribbean territory of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The channel is part of the Direct Media Curaçao media ecosystem, managed by Jachmin Pinedo Productions N.V. and founded by Jachmin Pinedo. TV Direct 13 broadcasts across multiple platforms: free-to-air, cable, satellite, and online OTT streaming.
Launched in 2010 as an independent private channel, TV Direct 13 quickly became one of the most popular TV stations in Curaçao. It was also the first open-air broadcaster on the island to deliver 100% of its content in High Definition (HD). Today, the channel works alongside two radio stations—Radio Direct 107.1FM and Radio Direct "Life" 92.1FM—forming a media group with significant influence across the region.
TV Direct 13 offers a diverse mix of content including news, sports, entertainment, music, and lifestyle programming. Its flagship shows are "Mainta" (morning show) and "Notisia 13" (evening news at 8 PM), both primarily in Papiamento, the local language. In addition to locally produced content, the channel holds licensing agreements with major US networks (NBC, CBS, ABC) and Latin American broadcasters (Telemundo, Univision) to bring international films and game shows to its audience.
The channel's main viewers include Curaçao residents, Papiamento-speaking communities on nearby islands like Bonaire, and tourists interested in local culture. Audiences stay engaged thanks to live coverage of major cultural events (such as Marcha Hubenil and the Regatta festival) and a team of experienced journalists.
Viewers can watch TV Direct 13 for free via open-air antenna (channel 13), local cable providers (Flow, Tres, TDS), or by downloading the "TVD13" app from the App Store or Google Play for live streaming, radio access, and Video On Demand content. The official website directmediacuracao.com also supports online viewing.
As a pioneer in HD technology adoption and in bridging traditional TV with digital platforms, TV Direct 13 not only drives competition in the Caribbean media landscape but also helps preserve and share Curaçao's local culture with audiences of all ages.
