Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI) announces another addition to its expanding portfolio with the world’s premier luxury lifestyle magazine

Robb Report, the unrivaled voice in the global luxury market is coming to the Philippines in 2024 under a licensing agreement between Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI) and Penske Media Corporation (PMC). Known for its authoritative coverage of all things luxury and boldface names, Robb Report leads as the “tastemaker’s tastemaker”. 

“We are proud to announce the launch of Robb Report Philippines,” said Luke Bahrenburg, President of Robb Report and Head of Luxury Sales for Penske Media. “Our new partnership with Modern Media Group underscores our commitment to provide luxury-lifestyle content and experiences to a growing global audience, and we look forward to bringing our brand’s voice to a new market.”

With the country’s growing appetite for sophisticated and high-end experiences, Robb Report will serve as MMGI’s definitive voice in the luxury market. “Our mission is to deliver a publication that resonates with the sophisticated Filipino audience, providing them with curated content that celebrates the pinnacle of luxury living,” said Archie G. Carrasco, Publisher of Robb Report Philippines and CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp., the parent company of MMGI.

Robb Report Philippines will offer content made for the affluent, encompassing travel and automobiles to real estate, fashion, watches, jewelry, and more. This edition will bring a unique local perspective while upholding the global standards that Robb Report is celebrated for. Guided by MMGI’s vision, Robb Report will present a mix of internationally acclaimed articles and locally produced content, ensuring relevance and engagement with its discerning audience of ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

“The magazine will serve as a guide for those who appreciate the finer things in life, offering exclusive access to the latest trends and innovations in the luxury sector,” added Anne Bernisca, COO of Modern Media Group, Inc.

Head on over to robbreport.ph. to stay updated on the upcoming launch event and other exciting news

As MMGI’s third international title alongside Nylon Manila and Billboard Philippines, Rolling Stone elevates the lineup with its influential global perspective in music journalism and sociocultural commentary

Rolling Stone comes to the Philippines under a licensing agreement with Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI).  Rolling Stone Philippines will join the ranks of internationally acclaimed magazine editions, including those in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, among others. Published in 10 languages with a global audience of over 75 million, the world’s leading authority on music, film, TV, and culture continues to expand its reach even further with its 15th iteration.

This partnership also strengthens MMGI’s mission to redefine the industry with innovative narratives, technologies, and experiences. COO of MMGI, Anne Bernisca, highlighted, “Our goal is to maintain the magazine’s tradition reflecting global standards while also exploring fresh perspectives and voices of the Filipino.” 

Penetrating the Philippine market with a rich musical scene and vibrant cultural landscape, Rolling Stone Philippines will provide comprehensive coverage across music, entertainment, social issues, and pop culture, featuring exclusive interviews, in-depth articles, and captivating photography that spotlight both global icons and local talents.

“Rolling Stone has been a beacon of social, cultural, and musical commentary for over five decades. We’re excited to see how our audience will engage with Rolling Stone’s rich heritage and forward-thinking content,” shared CEO of AGC PHC, the parent company of MMGI, Archie G. Carrasco. 

As MMGI enters this bigger chapter, Bernisca noted that, “This expansion is more than just a growth strategy; it’s an opportunity to amplify diverse voices and stories that matter.” The establishment of Rolling Stone Philippines promises to be a significant move that will uncover new narratives waiting to be discovered.

Head on over to rollingstonephilippines.com. to stay updated on the upcoming launch event and other exciting news.

The country’s premier media publishing company sets foot in the international market

From bringing the industry of glossy fashion magazines to the Philippines in 1992 to diversifying multiple titles under its roster, One Mega Group Inc. (OMGI) is thrilled to extend its reach as the regional publisher of VMAN in Southeast Asia. 

OMGI’s three-decade excellence in publishing has led to the creation of homegrown brands MEGA, MEGAStyle, MEGA Entertainment, MEGA Man, MEGA Active, MEGA Drag, Lifestyle Asia, BluPrint, MyHome, Modern Parenting, The Business Manual, and The Game. This September 2024, VMAN SEA will join the lineup as OMGI’s first international brand. Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of parent company AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) says, “One Mega Group Inc. is the first 100% Filipino media company that will lead Southeast Asia.”

VMAN, known as the “vanguard of men’s fashion destinations,”is a sub-brand of internationally acclaimed V Magazine. Established in New York in 2003, VMAN has featured all-star personalities like Inez & Vinoodh, Nick Knight, Steven Klein, Mario Sorrenti, Hedi Slimane, and Karl Lagerfeld. It has become the men’s resource of style, intersecting art, film, design, travel, music, grooming, and sports. 

Venturing to Southeast Asia, this partnership will showcase the region’s dynamic culture across a larger stage. According to Ramon Galicia, COO of OMGI and VMAN SEA Publisher, this move represents a strategic thrust into the scene: “We want to build menswear not just in the Philippines, but throughout Southeast Asia. We are confident that VMAN SEA will captivate and inspire the modern Southeast Asian man with its sophisticated content and unparalleled style.” Sharing the same vision, Philippine-born VMAN Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director Stephen Gan adds his excitement to the collaboration, “This launch signifies our mission to reach new audiences and provide them with the global content that VMAN is renowned for.” 

Under the vision of OMGI, VMAN SEA will offer a curated blend of global trends and local insights in men’s fashion and lifestyle. “This is just the beginning,” shares Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of AGC PHC, emphasizing OMGI’s commitment to elevating the industry through further global efforts.

Head on over to vman-sea.com to stay updated on the upcoming launch event and other exciting news.

Archie G. Carrasco narrates his story of leading with a purposeful vision.

Since 1925 the FIPP has convened to provide media leaders from around the world a venue to connect and engage. On its 46th run, the FIPP World Media Congress gathered the industry’s global members in Cascais, Portugal. Among the distinguished speakers was AGG Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) CEO Archie G. Carrasco, the sole speaker from Southeast Asia, who focused on the company’s principle of “Purpose over Profit.”

Identifying Purpose

Carrasco emphasized the responsibility of leaders to prioritize purpose in a consumer-driven world. He asserted that leaders must guide their organizations to positively impact society and the environment beyond mere profit pursuits.

“Today’s generation looks beyond the traditional success indicators such as money or prestige. They seek a sense of meaning and fulfillment, and purpose provides that. Purpose-driven companies attract top talent, build loyalty, and achieve sustainable profitability,” Carrasco stated.

After establishing the internal benefits, Carrasco expounded on the external benefits of being guided by purpose, “Companies who form stronger emotional connections with customers and stand out in crowded marketplaces. They also demonstrate resilience in times of crisis, guided by their core purpose.”

Integrating Purpose

“At AGC Power Holdings Corp., purpose is embedded in every action,” Carrasco continued. He illustrated the company’s vision, ‘To create pioneering, entertaining, and socially responsible products and services that positively impact the lives of every Filipino.’ by citing examples of its practice in its flagship media brands:

• Vogue Philippines: Bridges Filipino identity with the world through fashion, supporting inclusivity, diversity, and sustainability.
• MEGA: Champions the Philippine fashion industry by discovering and promoting new talent.
• Billboard Philippines: Connects Filipino music to the global stage, opening opportunities for local artists.

This company vision is what guides the holding company’s three media subsidiaries to ensure a consistent and unified approach across all its 13 media brands.

Igniting Purpose

Drawing from his leadership at AGC PHC, Carrasco advised businesses to clearly define their purpose and align their mission. He stressed the importance of communicating this purpose to stakeholders and integrating it into every aspect of business operations, from ideation to service delivery.

As Carrasco ended his address, he called for businesses to navigate today’s fast-moving, complex world with purpose as their north star, “Life is not measured by the number of things we have done, but by the impact we have made.”

Archie Carrasco will take the global stage to share insights, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and connect with fellow media leaders.

AGC Power Holdings Corp. is proud to announce the participation of its CEO, Archie G. Carrasco, as one of the distinguished speakers at the 46th FIPP World Media Congress, scheduled to take place from June 4-6, 2024, in Cascais, Portugal. This premier global event is set to convene leaders from across the media industry, providing a platform to discuss the future of media in the context of innovative technologies, sustainability, and audience engagement.

The FIPP World Media Congress 2024 will feature a comprehensive agenda that focuses on transformative media innovations. The congress will highlight the significant role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping a human-focused future, the launch of the Innovation in Media World Report, the allure of luxury media brands, and the dynamic advertising landscape in Japan. Special sessions are dedicated to exploring sustainable journalism, direct-to-consumer monetization strategies, and the applications of generative AI, promising to deliver invaluable insights into the evolving media landscape.

As the only speaker from Southeast Asia, Mr. Carrasco’s presentation, titled “Purpose over Profit,” will delve into the equilibrium between humanity and digital progress. He will discuss how prioritizing social impact over financial gain not only reshapes business values but also fosters sustainable growth. This session is poised to offer profound insights on balancing digital advancements with social responsibilities, underlining Mr. Carrasco’s influential role and thought leadership within the industry.

The 46th edition of the congress promises a rich and diverse agenda, covering innovative strategies, sustainability initiatives, and leadership challenges in the digital age. It serves as an invaluable gathering for professionals looking to navigate the complexities of the media landscape, offering unique opportunities for sharing pioneering insights and exploring collaborative endeavors.

AGC Power Holdings Corp. is honored by Mr. Carrasco’s involvement in such a significant event, which underscores his pivotal contribution and visionary approach to the media industry. His participation is a testament to the company’s commitment to driving innovation and fostering sustainable growth within the global media landscape.

The local edition of the global fashion authority has named its fashion editor, beauty editor, features editor, and managing editor.

Vogue Philippines today announced more names joining its growing editorial team. The title will launch its print, digital, and social media platforms in September 2022 under Mega Global Licensing, Inc. (MGLI). Daryl Chang will serve as fashion editor of Vogue Philippines while Joyce Oreña will join as beauty editor. Audrey Carpio will be the edition’s features editor, and Jacs Sampayan will join as managing editor.

“We recently unveiled the first appointments of Vogue Philippines’ team, and now we’re thrilled to announce more names which include veteran and trusted editors with decades of experience in the publishing industry.” says Archie Carrasco, Chairman and CEO, MGLI.

Daryl Chang has been working in publishing for 10 years as both fashion editor and fashion director and will collaborate closely with Vogue Philippines’ fashion director Pam Quiñones in sharing the Filipino voice, taste, and style with the rest of the world.

“Vogue’s compelling imagery and intelligent storytelling has always been my benchmark of fashion and I am thrilled to take on the role as Vogue Philippines’ fashion editor,” says Chang. “The opportunity to shape the way the world sees Filipino fashion and culture by shining a light on our incredible craftsmanship and creativity is an honor.”

Joyce Oreña joins the title with three decades of experience in the fashion and beauty industries, including modeling for some of the top Manila designers in the ‘90s. Saying that working for Vogue is a dream come true, Oreña aims to be a passionate storyteller on a mission to elevate the Philippines on a global level through beauty and wellness storytelling.

Audrey Carpio is a sought-after writer and editor who has been regularly contributing to some of the most established and widely-read titles in Metro Manila. Apart from her extensive writing portfolio, she also drafts and edits speeches and articles for the Department of Tourism.

With over 20 years of experience in the publishing industry, Jacs Sampayan has worked with different teams of powerful content creators and passionate storytellers.

“Vogue has been the Holy Grail for Philippine publishing for a long time. To finally have our own is a symbol of hope and better days, and that optimism will carry beyond the fashion industry,” he says. “I am honored to be part of this pioneering team.”

“We wanted to include talents that are both seasoned and emerging to complete the Vogue Philippines editorial team, so that expertise is passed on and sustained,” says Suki Salvador, President, MGLI. “Today, we enlisted four seasoned talents to form a stellar set of Vogue Philippines editors which now includes Daryl Chang, Joyce Oreña, Audrey Carpio, and Jacs Sampayan. I’m delighted to be working with the finest in the country.”

***

Vogue Philippines is published under a license agreement between Condé Nast and MEGA Global Licensing. Inc. Condé Nast’s media licensing business publishes editions of the global media company’s iconic brands with local partners around the world.

MEGA Global Licensing, Inc. is the sister company of One Mega Group (OMG), a publishing house that boasts 30 years of prestige publishing expertise and home to MEGA, the Philippines best fashion magazine. Together, they fall under the AGC Power Holdings Corp (AGC PHC) conglomerate. In 2020, amidst the global pandemic, AGC PHC has aggressively expanded its portfolio to launch new homegrown titles under OMG, and include international print and digital titles to their roster through MGLI. Thus, the launch of Nylon Manila in November 2020 and the acquisition of the Vogue Philippines license agreement with Condé Nast in 2021.

Head on over to vogue.ph for more news and updates about Vogue Philippines.

The newest global edition of Vogue appoints fashion industry veterans and noted creative personalities.

Vogue Philippines today announced the appointments of its editorial team. Leading the team is Bea Valdes, who has been appointed Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Philippines. Pam Quiñones will also join the team as Fashion Director. Further appointments include Trina Epilepsia Boutain as Digital Editor and Rhoda Campos-Aldanese as Publisher of the title. The Filipino edition of Vogue will launch its print, digital, and social media platforms in September 2022.

“We have appointed individuals who each share the same purpose of Vogue Philippines, which is to uplift Philippine fashion and discover emerging talents who will shape the future of the industry,” says Archie Carrasco, Chairman and CEO of MEGA Global Licensing, Inc. (MGLI). He adds that each has “a deep understanding and appreciation of local and international fashion and seeks to speak to every generation”.

Bea Valdes, who is appointed Editor-in-Chief, is an internationally-renowned accessories designer and proponent of Filipino craft and responsible fashion. Her work has been featured in many leading global publications, including international editions of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, The New York Times, CNN, The Financial Times, and TIME among others. She has established herself as a leading light in the local industry, not only for her instantly recognizable work that celebrates Filipino artisanship, but also for her advocacy towards a circular economy and slow fashion. In 2010, she was one of the Ten Outstanding Young Individuals (TOYM Awardee) recognized by Philippine President Aquino for her professional achievements. More recently, she was included in the list of Tatler Asia’s Most Influential in 2021. Valdes grew up in the Philippines and studied Creative Writing and Industrial Design at the University of the Philippines and Interior Design at the Inchbald School of Design in London.

“Bea Valdes is immersed in the world of fashion and equipped with a widespread knowledge of the industry’s needs and constraints. As a creative, she can produce narratives through the lens of style; and as a leader, she is keen on spotting new and emerging talents,” says Carrasco.

“The values and the resolve of our community have been tested on an unprecedented global and local scale. The reshaping and recalibrating of our choices facilitate a continuing dialogue with our collective futures. Vogue’s values of inclusivity, diversity, sustainability, and respect for our natural environment remain critical at this time. My vision for Vogue Philippines is to lead the industry with purpose, leaning into our Filipino values of optimism, bayanihan and empathy through our stories, we celebrate craft and creativity, empowering our community and urging our Filipino culture forward,” says Valdes.

Pam Quiñones, who is joining the team as Fashion Director, has an extensive and varied career in the industry, with a strong editorial background and experience leading several notable fashion and styling companies. She possesses a deep understanding of the local market and has been at the forefront of the local movement for sustainable fashion solutions and practices.

As Digital Editor, Trina Epilepsia Boutain joins Vogue Philippines with over a decade’s worth of experience working with both print and digital platforms. She has held the roles of Managing Editor and Beauty and Features Editor for MEGA Magazine. Through her participation in the title’s annual New PH list, she has helped shine a spotlight on many local emerging and innovative talents.

Vogue Philippines’ Publisher, Rhoda Campos-Aldanese, is a valued player in the luxury industry, both in the Philippines and globally. From her vast experience at niche luxury labels and iconic global brands, Campos-Aldanese has successfully created lasting and fruitful partnerships by connecting the desired brands to the right consumers.

“Our core values of excellence and innovation which we have upheld as a publishing company for the last 30 years take center stage at Vogue Philippines. Purposeful, modern, and artfully done, we will put the Filipino craft side by side with the rest of the world monthly through Vogue Philippines and daily on Vogue.ph,” adds Suki Salvador, President of MGLI. 

***

Vogue Philippines is published under a license agreement between Condé Nast and MEGA Global Licensing. Inc. Condé Nast’s media licensing business publishes editions of the global media company’s iconic brands with local partners around the world. 

Head on over to vogue.ph for more news and updates about Vogue Philippines.

OMG’s big boss, Archie Carrasco, shares a story of audacity, bravery and inspired vision.

Archie Carrasco, or Sir Arch, as many in OMG call him, was never one for the spotlight. During events and shoots, he can always been seen away from the camera, preferring to let his team take the spotlight. In various #MakingMEGA documentaries, it’s always Suki Salvador or Peewee Reyes-Isidro being interviewed. But come the stars and the teams will always turn to him, mention his name first: “Thanks, Sir Arch.”

Carrasco’s shyness from the spotlight isn’t because has nothing to say—a casual conversation with him will reveal that he’s always eager to share something new he’s learned. But he’s always been content to be in the background, ensuring that things were working properly, nothing is missed, that the goal is clear to all, and—most importantly—that his people were happy. After all, happy employees are inspired employees. They produce amazing results, they never back down from a challenge, and—sometimes—even go beyond one’s expectations.

It’s a simple concept, this business of making people happy, but it isn’t easy. At the start of his tenure as OMG’s main man, it was clear the degree of difficulty of weeding out the pervasive negativity that had taken root and enveloped the company. OMG had, after all, seen their original leader Sari V. Yap pass on, sales drop, and the entire publishing industry was seemingly on the brink. When Carrasco took over OMG, morale was low and people were uncertain of the future. Surely, being a boss then wasn’t much fun.

But he was primed for the challenge. In the speech he shared at the OMG Town Hall meeting, Carrasco narrated how he was often plagued by doubt in his first few years in the company. It took the wisdom of Sari V. Yap and his own hard-earned realizations for him to come to terms with what needed to be done—and how to do it.

And boy, did he do it. His tenacity and singular vision remain unmatched. And while he steps away from the role of president of OMG, he remains very much at the helm, a strong figure content to work away from the limelight, doing what he does best, which is to get the job done and done well.

Give it up to the man who never gave up.

A MEGA Story

When I first stepped into the office of One MEGA Group in 2007, I still remember waiting for 4 hours in the boardroom when a lady approached me and asked, “Are you waiting for anyone?” I said, “I am waiting for Ms. Sari Yap.” To my surprise, she replied, “I am Sari Yap.”

That was the beginning of my journey in One MEGA Group.

Like many, my 14 years in One MEGA Group was not an easy ride. I also faced a lot of challenges. I wanted to quit a lot of times, and can’t even count how many times I tried to tender my resignation to my boss. But for whatever reason, Ms. Sari has her way of letting me see things I never realized I had. Thinking of giving up and actually giving up are two different things. As they say, quitters never win, winners never quit.

Just keep on doing your best and always do it with love, happiness, and integrity.

For sure, your time will come.

Two years ago, Ms. Sari appointed me to be the second President and CEO of One MEGA Group. Before that, the role was offered to me countless times, but I just kept refusing. I didn’t understand—why me?—until we had a long conversation in January 2019. It was my first time hearing the actual condition of her health. She was afraid for me to be burdened with worry while taking care of the company’s responsibilities, so she instructed everyone not to tell me about her health.

I still remember how she ended our conversation. She said, “I am done with One Mega, and you are ready. Align the company with your skill. That is the only way for One Mega to survive.”

I can’t believe it was only two years ago since I took the responsibility. To be honest, it feels like a decade already. Taking this journey as the President and CEO were fulfilling. As I said, it came with so many challenges. Our beloved founder passed away, our company was in a bad shape—dying platforms, unpaid suppliers and contributors, delayed payment of printers, outstanding office rentals, and the most recent worldwide pandemic that caused an economic crisis.

But I stood for my people and fought for everyone.

May 2020—I put the company’s business operations on break.

July 2020—I presented the new directions of the company to the management team.

August 2019—I shared the recalibrated plan with everyone.

And now, I can’t be any happier as the company is in better shape again.

While I’m proud of these accomplishments, they aren’t about me. They’re about my people. They’ve trusted and supported the company as we’ve taken bold leaps and achieved some audacious goals. People in the industry said that it was too brave for us to pull off the new MEGA, MEGA Man, and MEGAStyle, the launch of MEGA Entertainment, Onemega.Com, and Modern Parenting, and even the acquisition of our first international brand, Nylon Manila.

BUT WE DID IT!

Archie Carrasco and Company

I am lucky that I have an incredibly supportive, innovative, and high-functioning team. I am inspired daily by everyone’s unparalleled talents, constant drive for excellence, and willingness to inject quite a bit of humor and fun along the way.

Today is a very special day because we are celebrating another history in One MEGA Group. Being the President of this company has never been just a job for me. It’s been a large part of who I am and a great source of pride. After almost three years, my time has come to finally turn over my position as the president to someone I believe can bring the company to the next level. While I continue to expand and diversify our company to different industries, I need someone I can trust to lead One MEGA Group, Inc.

Looking back at those years, I had someone who helped me make sure everything was appropriately implemented. And giving up is also not part of his vocabulary. He’s one of my strengths and a constant partner during the recovery of the company. With great pleasure and pride, I am very honored to formally announce and introduce the new President of One MEGA Group, Mr. Suki Salvador.

Group Effort

As Archie Carrasco hands over the keys to his longtime colleague, he will in turn be focusing on expanding the eco-system of One MEGA Group through AGC Power Holdings Corp. – an investment company that aims to help young Filipino entrepreneurs. Under this holdings company, 2 media companies—one local, one global—along with a marketing agency, a music and video production house, an e-commerce platform and a foundation for all the employees will serve to strengthen the reach and scope of Carrasco’s vision.

His tenure as president of OMG may have been relatively short when compared to his predecessor, but no doubt the effects of Carrasco’s efforts will be felt for years to come. With his dream team set, One MEGA Group, and Archie Carrasco, can only soar higher.

Head on over to https://mega.onemega.com/ for more news and stories about Mega Magazine.

The straight-talking industry veteran, Suki Salvador, is the brand new President of One Mega Group.

Earlier today, Archie Carrasco, the CEO and Chairman of One Mega Group announced that he would be stepping away from his role in the company before naming Suki Salvador, formerly the VP of Content & Creatives, as the brand new leader of OMG. Salvador, the longstanding creative director of MEGA Magazine and EIC of MEGA Man, is known for his straight talk, intense creative drive, and pursuit of excellence—things that he hopes to underline even more in the company and its multiple brands.

At the start of his speech during the online OMG Town hall meeting, Salvador thanked Carrasco, who took over the reigns of OMG from founder Sari V. Yap, and who steered the company successfully through a tumultuous time marked by economic uncertainty and, of course, an unprecedented pandemic. During his leadership, Carrasco pursued an employee-centric style of management, showing stronger fiscal results and smoother, more streamlined operational processes. Despite the odds, Carrasco was able to strengthen the company by establishing robust titles and properties outside print. Salvador himself expressed gratefulness to his predecessor for the stable company he was inheriting. But of course, taking over the lead role in this storied company will be no easy feat, even for the industry veteran.

MEGA Worthy, Suki Salvador

It is perhaps no surprise that Salvador was named the new president of the 29-year-old media company. In its values, One Mega Group has always championed homegrown talent, skill and creativity; Salvador, in his 13 years with the company, has not only discovered and nurtured many talented individuals, but he himself is one of these extraordinary visionaries. A graduate of New York University (NYU), Salvador was pursuing his pre-med studies until he heeded the siren call of the arts. From training under legendary Filipino photographer Raymund Isaac, to co-founding ICON magazine, Salvador made it clear that no job was too small or too big—if he needed it to succeed, he would do it with style, grace and integrity.

Upon joining OMG, Suki Salvador took on many different roles and in each one of them he brought with him his unique voice (figuratively and literally—Salvador is known for his distinct cadence and vocal inflection) and point of view. From co-starring and co-hosting the television hit MEGA Fashion Crew, to conceptualizing and executing industry-changing events and products, and even laying out magazine pages when there’s no one else to do it, Salvador has done them all.

Creative Vision

“I first met him when he joined the company as a creative director for Lifestyle Asia. The [previous] EIC Anna Sobrepeña brought him in,” says Peewee Reyes-Isidro, Editor-in-Chief of MEGA Magazine. “My first impression was that he was smart, articulate and [possessed] a clear vision. He later on was quickly appointed as group creative director for all brands because of his ability to balance art and commercial, as well as effectively share the narrative through covers.”

Salvador and Reyes-Isidro have been a duo of sorts for many years, hosting and anchoring the iconic #MakingMEGA documentaries and surviving many, many deadlines together. Together, they weathered the advertising and audience shift to digital, countless team changes, and the generally volatile waters of the local publishing industry. In a world known for its cattiness, their steadfast relationship is an oddity, considering their contrasting styles and personalities. “[W]e are each other’s sounding boards,” the soft-spoken Reyes-Isidro shares of her relationship with the often brutally frank Salvador. “We are honest and transparent. And we support one another.” Between them, they have produced many memorable MEGA covers and editorials. When asked which one most encapsulated Salvador’s style, the editor came up with a list that included several milestone September issues, another with supermodel Tyra Banks, and a number of #MakingMEGA editions. “[These] are [just] the ones I can recall,” shares Reyes-Isidro with a laugh. “They are beautiful; the cover stars recognizable but elevated [in terms of styling] and [each one] is an image that is memorable and iconic.”

“Not only is he creative, [but] he also understands the processes and operations [of publishing]. He also has a unique understanding of the business side. That is rare. So to have all those skills and experience makes a good leader,” she adds.

What’s In A Name

During his speech, Salvador was forthright enough to name the issues that have plagued the company. Not one to mince words, he immediately shared the grand plan: “My singular vision for One Mega Group is to be a media giant,” he declared, at par with boldfaced names such as Condé Nast and The New York Times.

If you’d been working for him for over three years or are part of his management team, then you may call him by his first name but if not, you may refer to his initials, SCS. “I want you to earn the right to call me by my first name,” he said plainly. On a surface note, it may come off as arrogant, designed to give pause and perhaps even inflict a bit of fear to a brash newbie or an indifferent colleague. But to those who know him well, it is distinctly—charmingly—patent Suki Salvador. If you’re not sure about your relationship with him, then you need to earn the confidence—his and yours. And you’ll get that by working hard, pursuing excellence, and doing it all with style, grace and passion. In short, you need to follow his lead.

Head on over to https://mega.onemega.com/ for more news and stories about Mega Magazine.

In celebration of her birthday, MEGA looks back on its founder Sari Yap, a visionary who understood what it meant to leave a legacy: like all things, it will keep on moving, beyond her vision.  

Sari Yap was telling me, a quivering applicant, “I’ve got the magazine. Events are doing well. I’ve got an excellent guy leading the television platform.” She says, “I need someone to do the same thing in the digital sphere.” In the corner of my eye, I could see founding Creative Director Lorraine Belmonte nodding in agreement.

Sari Yap Right Here, Right Now

This was way back in the aughts. Facebook was still cool. People still had BlackBerrys. Low slung jeans and thongs were a new thing. But Sari V. Yap, as visionaries go, was already here. In her head she already saw a sleek MEGA website, as glossy and as articulate as the magazine. She could see that it would be the youth who would bring in a new world order, that the team would be a group of creatives who breathed and talked and lived online. She knew the role MEGA would be playing in this brave new world, how it would interact to brand new generations. She knew this already and she wanted to be there right this minute.

But for the rest of us, it took a while.

It’s always hard to navigate and pave out the path to a dream. Perhaps it’s the curse of being a pioneer. She could see gold where many of us only saw a murky stream.

Sari Yap’s Legacy 

When Sari left us two years ago, her legacy cast a long and devastating shadow on the team. Her dream for MEGA, was still not quite there yet. Oh, we’d certainly gone a long way from when we first started, but in true Sari fashion, it wasn’t MEGA—yet. It wasn’t surprising that our new CEO Archie Carrasco made it his top priority. As the bearer of Sari’s torch, he understood well that it wasn’t just what Sari wanted, it was what MEGA needed. And so, here we are, finally living out Sari Yap’s digital dreams. 

It wasn’t easy getting here. There were many false starts, a few cringing mistakes, and many, many moments of doubt. Heck, even a pandemic got into the fray. But slowly, methodically, we got there. By getting the right mix of people, getting a clear vision and a definite path to get there, we finally achieved her dream of a thriving MEGA brand. 

And what’s next? 

Why, to move on, of course. 

Thank You, Next 

This isn’t an affront to Sari and her legacy. Rather, we’re following again exactly what she saw from way back: that for MEGA to continue, it needed to go beyond what she envisioned. The river of life, after all, keeps on flowing. I’m sure she had at least an inkling of this back when she was talking to me (or perhaps to herself) about her plans. But now the future of MEGA lies in a brand new vision and a different team. It will always be her MEGA, but it is also now ours. In a way, this was an essential component of her legacy, that it would moving and growing in ways even she couldn’t imagine. 

Perhaps she knew that too. 

Head on over to https://mega.onemega.com/and-so-it-begins-the-story-of-mega-according-to-sari-yap/ for the full story on Sari Yap.