Archie G. Carrasco, Apples Aberin, and Trickie Lopa Discuss Creativity and the Future of Filipino Talent

More than a conversation about creativity, culture, and branding, the fireside discussion at OFF THE GRID 2.0: Empowering Creative Futures by SoFA Design Institute became a reflection on the responsibility of shaping culture and the future of Filipino talent.

Gathering students, designers, and emerging creatives, the event brought together AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) Chairman and CEO Archie G. Carrasco, One Mega Group Inc. Vice President for Lifestyle Media Brands Apples Aberin, and Vogue Philippines Editor-in-Chief Trickie Lopa for a candid discussion on taste, authenticity, branding, and creative leadership.

Hosted by SoFA Design Institute, one of the Philippines’ leading design schools, OFF THE GRID 2.0 served as a platform for industry leaders and future creatives to exchange ideas on how creativity can shape culture, communities, and industries in an increasingly connected world.

Leading with Purpose and Responsibility

The panel explored the responsibility that comes with shaping culture through media and creative platforms, emphasizing how editorial and branding decisions influence what audiences perceive as meaningful, relevant, and culturally significant. They highlighted the importance of purpose, accountability, and integrity in creating work that balances creative vision with public responsibility.

Lopa said, “There is pressure, especially on a platform like Vogue. Whatever comes out in our pages has to be something we truly believe in, something we can stand by, and something worth putting out into the world.”

Aberin shared, “For me, the responsibility is actually a privilege. I came to AGC PHC because I believed in the vision and in the possibility of making a difference—changing how people consume content, inspiring people, and helping drive Filipino culture forward. That’s why for us, it’s always purpose over profit.”

Carrasco added, “I love pressure because it pushes us to become better. It prevents complacency. When things become overwhelming, you don’t quit—you pause, recharge, find inspiration again, and go back to your ‘why.’ That’s what keeps you moving forward.”

Bringing Filipino Creativity to the Global Stage

At the center of the discussion was AGC PHC’s broader vision of elevating Filipino creativity internationally through its media, publishing, and cultural platforms. Through brands such as Vogue Philippines and Billboard Philippines, the company continues to create opportunities that connect local talent with global audiences while strengthening the visibility of Filipino creativity on the world stage.

Carrasco shared, “My mission has always been to open Filipino creatives to the world. Through brands like Vogue Philippines and Billboard Philippines, we want Filipino talent to be seen, recognized, and celebrated globally.”

Reflecting on his encounters with Filipino models during Vogue Philippines Threads in Paris in 2024, Carrasco recalled how the publication helped amplify local creatives internationally.

“When people abroad say ‘Vogue Philippines,’ they immediately think of Filipino talent. That’s when I realized we were doing something meaningful—not just creating beautiful pages, but creating opportunities and visibility for Filipinos on the global stage.”

He also discussed AGC PHC’s continued expansion beyond publishing into experiential ventures, events, and cultural initiatives designed to bring brands closer to communities and audiences.

“It’s no longer just about brand building—it’s about world building. We want people to experience these brands beyond magazines and create ecosystems that connect culture, creativity, and community.”

Challenging Convention Through Originality

Students also raised questions on originality, ethics, and creativity in a digital landscape where inspiration is constantly circulating and evolving.

The panel underscored the importance of critical thinking and personal perspective, noting that originality today lies not in creating something from nothing, but in transforming inspiration through one’s own experiences, values, and point of view.

Carrasco explained, “Whatever you see can inspire you, but don’t simply copy it. There may be few completely original ideas anymore, but what matters is how you make something your own. Once you add your personal experiences and your own point of view, that becomes your taste—and eventually, your branding.”

Lopa added, “What makes something stand out is when people take inspiration and push it further in a way that feels personal and unexpected. There has to be something of yourself in the work—that’s where the magic happens.”

Aberin encouraged students to embrace curiosity and challenge conventions.

“What I love about this generation is that you’re not afraid to challenge norms. Think critically. Don’t just accept things for what they are. Analyze them, question them, and push beyond convention, because that’s what leads to truly meaningful creative work.”

A Future Built on Authenticity

As the discussion came to a close, the speakers left students with a clear message: creativity is not only about aesthetics or visibility, but about authenticity, purpose, and the courage to create meaningful work.

For AGC PHC, the conversation reflected a broader mission that extends beyond publishing and media—to champion Filipino talent, create platforms that inspire cultural conversations, and help shape a future where Filipino creativity continues to thrive globally.

As Carrasco reminded the audience, meaningful impact begins when creatives remain grounded in their purpose and never lose sight of why they create in the first place.

Photo courtesy of SoFA Design Institute and Hilrey Botalon of AGC Power Holdings Corp.