Asia, Latin America dominate International TV Emmys

Monday's 2009 nominations for the TV equivalent of the Oscars span 17 countries, with Thailand nominated for the first time, and in two categories, and the Philippines scooping three nominations.

"The geographic representation is quite amazing," Emmy academy president Bruce L. Paisner told AFP.

"This demonstrates the huge strides made by both countries in the TV business," he said of Thailand and the Philippines.

The competition takes place over six months with three rounds of judging by 600 judges in 50 countries.

Britain led again this year with nine nominations, followed by Brazil, which collected five, including two for TV Globo for best comedy and for TV movie/mini-series.

Asia and Latin America each notched up a total 10 nominations across the 10 categories of programs.