AGC Power Holdings Corp. celebrated a night of extraordinary leadership, passion, and achievement at the LEAD Awards 2025, held on April 25. The event gathered the brightest trailblazers from across its subsidiaries to honor those whose work has made a profound impact on the company’s growth, innovation, and purpose.
Opening the evening with an inspiring address, Chairman and CEO Archie Carrasco emphasized the deeper meaning behind the awards. “Leadership is not about being in charge—it’s about taking care of those in your charge,” he shared. “Tonight, we celebrate not only excellence but the spirit that drives it—the spirit of true leadership.”
Carrasco reflected on three essential lessons: that leadership is rooted in empathy, built through consistent action, and measured by the legacy it leaves behind. These guiding principles set the tone for the evening’s recognitions.
The celebration began by honoring the Top Outstanding Employees of the Year (TOEY)—individuals whose extraordinary contributions embody the values, spirit, and future of AGC Power Holdings Corp.
The 2025 TOEY Awardees are:
Gian Valiente (AGC Power Holdings Corp., Business Growth Department)
A pillar of dependability, Gian has been instrumental in leading the company’s trade launches, roadshows, and advertiser partnerships. With strategic creativity and sharp negotiation skills, he consistently finds innovative ways to strengthen relationships and generate savings, all while maintaining the company’s highest standards of professionalism and excellence.
Angelino Joseph Quijencio (Nylon Manila, Modern Media Group Inc.)
An exceptional multimedia artist who seamlessly bridges creative disciplines, Angelino produces videos, art-directs shoots, and crafts digital assets that power the dynamic voice of Nylon Manila. Despite his many talents, he remains one of the most humble and positive forces in the company—a true team player whose work ethic inspires those around him.
Mae Sicat (One MEGA Group Inc., Advertising Creative Services Department)
Mae plays a critical role in ensuring the proper execution of over ₱100 million worth of advertising commitments. With laser-sharp attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and flawless implementation, she safeguards client trust and upholds the company’s reputation—earning consistent praise from both internal and external stakeholders.
Mika Cruz (Modern Media Group Inc., Production Department)
A natural leader and systems thinker, Mika introduced processes that revolutionized how supplier payments and production operations are managed. Her initiative, leadership, and operational innovations have been adopted across multiple subsidiaries, dramatically improving efficiency and strengthening vendor relations across the group.
Bettina Alexandra Mendoza (Vogue Philippines, MEGA Global Licensing Inc.)
From battling early career challenges to closing record-breaking sales, Bettina embodies the spirit of perseverance and resilience. Delivering an extraordinary ₱45 million in sales for Vogue Philippines, she has set a new standard for excellence in account management—proving that grit, patience, and dedication are the cornerstones of lasting success.
Dennise Rialp (AGC Power Holdings Corp., HR Department)
The architect behind AGC Power Holdings Corp.’s remarkable workforce expansion, Dennise has tirelessly screened, interviewed, and selected individuals who embody the company’s values and aspirations. Beyond hiring, she plays a vital role in shaping corporate culture, nurturing future leaders, and ensuring that the organization continues to grow with purpose.
Ticia Almazan (Vogue Philippines, MEGA Global Licensing Inc.)
A founding team member of Vogue Philippines, Ticia has contributed not only as a skilled writer but also as a thoughtful leader whose influence extends across the creative process. With deep insight, empathy, and unwavering professionalism, she has helped forge a distinctive editorial voice that resonates with a global audience and elevates Filipino storytelling.
Rafael Santos (AGC Power Holdings Corp., Events Department)
Rafael is the unsung hero behind the seamless execution of Billboard Philippines and Rolling Stone Philippines events. From backstage chaos to front-stage perfection, he manages productions with precision, calm leadership, and a heartfelt passion for bringing music and culture to life—ensuring unforgettable experiences for both artists and audiences.
Brent Castro (AGC Power Holdings Corp., Events Department)
A visionary creative force, Brent reimagines brand experiences through immersive events that combine strategic thinking and artistic storytelling. From large-scale concerts to intimate gatherings, he translates abstract concepts into tangible, memorable moments—elevating the stature of every media brand under AGC Power Holdings Corp.
Samantha Anciano (One MEGA Group Inc., Marketing Department, Lifestyle Media Group)
Leading not just one but five lifestyle brands, Samantha is a master of operational discipline and creative execution. Despite lean resources, she consistently delivers campaigns that are organized, impactful, and aligned with the company’s broader mission—earning trust, respect, and admiration across teams, clients, and leadership.
Each awardee’s journey was a moving testament to the spirit of perseverance, innovation, and servant leadership that defines AGC Power Holdings Corp.
As the evening progressed, the spotlight expanded—from honoring the outstanding individuals who power everyday excellence, to recognizing the visionaries and teams who shape the company’s enduring legacy.
The major honorees of the night included:
Outstanding Leader of the Year:
Janine Recto, Vice President for Asia Media Brands, One MEGA Group Inc., for her pivotal role in leading transformational initiatives across brands and platforms.
Editor of the Year (Executive Category):
Bea Valdes, Editor-in-Chief, Vogue Philippines, whose visionary leadership has redefined fashion publishing in the country.
Editor of the Year (Junior Category):
Rafael Bautista, Deputy Editor, Nylon Manila, for achieving the highest organic digital engagement across all media brands.
Department of the Year:
Digital Infrastructure and Optimization Division, for modernizing digital operations and launching world-class platforms.
Campaign of the Year:
Billboard Philippines MainStage: The First Anniversary Concert, which solidified Billboard’s standing in music and youth culture with a historic sold-out show.
Media Brand of the Year:
Vogue Philippines, for demonstrating unparalleled performance across revenue, brand prestige, and cultural impact.
Company of the Year:
One MEGA Group Inc., recognized not only for leading in sales and profitability but for evolving into a regional force in the Asian creative industry.
“This evening is for all our awardees, nominees, and the many silent trailblazers among us,” Carrasco concluded. “Because true leadership is not about seeking applause—it’s about advancing the purpose that moves us all forward.”
The LEAD Awards 2025 reaffirmed AGC Power Holdings Corp.’s unwavering commitment to nurturing leadership, celebrating excellence, and building a legacy that will resonate far beyond titles and trophies.
AGC Power Holdings Corp. extends its deepest appreciation to its brand partners: The Archives Booth, Sipps Manila, Trovare, Eliohr Candle Co, and Petals of Love MNL.
Photo courtesy of Kim Santos of KLIQ Inc.