Rolling Stone is set to embark on an exciting new chapter as it expands to the Philippines.

Rolling Stone, the iconic music, culture, and social issues magazine, is ready to reinvent the rules and redefine the Philippine media scene with its bold, cutting-edge journalism. Under the umbrella of AGC Power Holdings Corp.’s (AGC PHC) Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI), Rolling Stone Philippines is gearing up for its debut with an editorial team led by seasoned publishing veteran, Jonty Cruz.

Known for his editorial work with some of the Philippines’ most respected publications, Cruz steps into the role of Chief of Editorial Content with a wealth of expertise and a forward-thinking vision. Cruz was part of the founding editorial team of  Esquire Philippines, before being the editor of Young Star and Rogue Magazine. When left to his own devices, he created two pandemic-born passion projects: Out of Print and Biter which built a strong following from the greater creative diaspora looking for something new. 

Most recently working at FleishmanHillard Manila as its Executive Creative Director, Cruz’s appointment comes at a time when the Philippine publishing industry is seeing a resurgence of bold, creative projects, and he’s eager to tap into this new energy. “Rolling Stone Philippines is further proof that we’re in the midst of a new era of Philippine publishing. Given the current state of truth and the rise of misinformation, we have every intent to reframe conversations to be more critical, discerning, and engaging. I can’t wait to help usher this brand with what I believe is an editorial dream team,” he shares. 

When it comes to his vision for the brand, Cruz states, “The word that comes to mind is attitude. Attitude will shape the direction of Rolling Stone Philippines.” This aligns perfectly with the counterculture spirit of Rolling Stone — unapologetically bold and always ahead of the curve.

“We are looking forward to steering the publishing industry further with Cruz. His editorial expertise and passion make him the perfect lead to establish Rolling Stone in the Philippines,” says Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of AGC PHC. 

As Rolling Stone Philippines prepares to hit newsstands, it’s clear that under Cruz’s leadership, the magazine is set to strengthen its legacy. “It’s less about differentiating and more about defining Rolling Stone for the Philippines. We’re not just here to honor what came before. We’re here to create new narratives,” he says.

Cruz aims to make the local edition a standout in its own right, while also staying true to Rolling Stone’s global identity. For Cruz, it’s about emphasizing Rolling Stone’s place in the culture and rising above the noise. His goal for the publication is simple yet ambitious: “To be the best magazine in the Philippines.”

Artist and journalist Sai Versailles brings a unique approach to storytelling that combines investigative rigor with a deep understanding of cultural movements. 

Rolling Stone Philippines announces Sai Versailles as their Digital Editor. In this role, Versailles will drive the media brand’s online content strategy with the creation of digital stories that shape music, culture, and societal discourse. 

Versailles’ strong connection to the cultural sector as a multimedia journalist, archivist, music curator, and grassroots organizer makes her an exceptional fit for the role. Her Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in International Development from the University of Oxford sets her apart, equipped with knowledge to analyze global trends and issues. 

Her extensive experience provides her a deep understanding of global touchpoints and the ability to connect with international audiences through collaborations with some of the world’s most influential platforms, including Boiler Room, VICE, and NTS Radio.

About her appointment, COO of Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI) Anne Bernisca said, “Sai Versailles is a visionary in the digital space, and with her as Rolling Stone’s Digital Editor, we expect her to elevate the brand’s storytelling. MMGI is happy to have her on the team.“ 

As for her vision for Rolling Stone Philippines, Versailles had this to say: “As Digital Editor, I’m most looking forward to expanding the possibilities of storytelling across text, image, video, and sound while pushing the envelope for cultural journalism in the Philippines.” 

Addressing the challenge of mistrust towards the media, Versailles noted, “The blurring between fact and fiction has created a highly skeptical landscape where trust between the media and public has eroded, and there’s a hunger for stories that reflect the everyday experiences we all face,” she explained. With this in mind, Versailles emphasizes the importance of unfiltered perspectives across the fields of music, politics, and culture. She is dedicated to fearless reporting on pressing societal issues while uncovering the minds and lives of today’s pioneers.

With her team, Versailles is eager to mentor a new generation of journalists in interrogating the world around them while championing uniquely Filipino stories. She looks forward to fostering a platform for critical discourse that transcends borders and resonates with audiences globally.

In this pursuit, she emphasized, “Expect a raw attitude to undercut everything we do,” reflecting the legacy that Rolling Stone is known for. 

Here’s a rundown on what happened on this night of Filipino Music.

In celebration of its first anniversary, Billboard Philippines ignited the MOA arena with Billboard Mainstage, one of the biggest nights in Filipino music. 33 Filipino artists – rising stars, legends, and current favorites –  shared the main stage performing before more than 10,000 fans. 

Mall of Asia Arena filled with thousands of fans

The night kicked off with a high energy performance from Sandwich, who got the crowd going with fan-favorite “Sugod” and their latest release, “Morena.” Following them, Dilaw showcased their hits “YIEE” and “Janice,” while Over October charmed the audience with “Ikot” and “Kaakit-akit.” John Roa then performed a medley of “Byahe” and “Closer to Your Heart.” 

Opening performances from Sandwich, Dilaw, Over October, and John Roa

The stage lit up with Billboard Philippines’ Hip-Hop Class of 2024 Alumni: O Side Mafia performed “Get Low” and collaborated with Tus Brothers for “CRASHING.”  The momentum continued with Zae and Illest Morena, followed by PLAYERTWO and FELIP, who kept the energy alive with their respective hits.

Billboard Philippines’ Hip-Hop Class of 2024 Alumni

Transitioning to a more soulful atmosphere, James Reid took the stage with “Sandal,” while Maki stole hearts with “Namumula” and “Dilaw.” Regine Velasquez-Alcasid continued to serenade the crowd with “Someday.”

Soulful beats from James Reid, Maki, and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid

The energy spiked back up with Gary Valenciano, alongside his son Gab, who electrified the audience with “Shake It Off” and “Babalik Pa Rin.” Sarah Geronimo captivated everyone with a medley of her smash hits, while TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan delivered a heartfelt duet of “Palagi,” culminating in a surprise proposal on stage. Adie followed and enchanted the audience with his new ballad “Nobya,” accompanied by a string quartet and choir.

Amazing performances of Gary and Gab Valenciano, Sarah Geronimo, KZ Tandingan and TJ Monterde, and Adie

P-pop acts then showcased their star power, starting with G22’s medley of “BOOMERANG,” “BABALIK,” and “BANG.” AJAA, VXON, and KAIA followed with their own incredible performances. SB19’s Josh Cullen premiered his remix of “1999” and “Get Right,” while Ben&Ben enchanted the crowd with “Sa Susunod Na Habang Buhay” and the debut of their new song “Triumph.” Hev Abi got the crowd moving  once more with a mashup of “Sumugal” and “Babaero.” Cup of Joe followed to perform their hits “Misteryoso” and “Tingin.”

Stage dominators AJAA, VXON,G22, KAIA, Josh Cullen, and Cup of Joe

Headlining P-pop groups closed the show with BINI who dazzled the audience with fan favorites “Cherry On Top” and a new version of “Pantropiko”. SB19 delivered an unforgettable performance of a remix of “Mana” and “CRIMZONE.”

Headlining P-pop stars BINI and SB19

In putting together Mainstage, Anne Bernisca, COO of Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI), expressed her gratitude to the AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) team that made the event possible. “The young, talented, and passionate team of Billboard PH couldn’t have come this far without the strong support from all departments within AGC PHC,” she said, acknowledging the contributions from events, PR, IT, administration, and more. Head of Events Production and Global Circulations Arriane Sanchez also shared, “This is our biggest anniversary yet. The goal of everyone behind this campaign is to celebrate Filipino music. Every note in this journey, even the offbeats, has contributed to creating something legendary.”

MMGI COO Anne Bernisca and Billboard PH Editor-in-Chief Bret Jackson

“Billboard Philippines Mainstage wasn’t just a celebration—it was a defining moment in our mission to elevate Filipino music alongside the listeners who power it,” Bret Jackson, Editor-in-Chief of Billboard Philippines remarked after wrapping up the concert. He continued, “Together we didn’t just honor a year of OPM — we set the tone for its future, uniting fans,  artists, and the music industry in an unforgettable tribute to the enduring spirit of Filipino music.” 

The historic show put the heart and soul of Filipino artistry on full display, uniting the entire music industry, from artists and fans alike. Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of AGC PHC said as he reflected on the milestone, “This is such a powerful statement for the local music scene, proving that OPM is alive.”

Billboard Mainstage was made possible through partnerships with: BDO, IQOS, ZYN, Tecno, Ikea, LG XBoom, KFC, SONY Audio, Globe, ACER, Kotex, YOU Beauty, McDonald’s, Jinro, Locally, Chinggu, Gluta Lipo, Beauty Vault.

Special thanks to: Nix Institute of Beauty, William Grant & Sons, Lime Resort Manila, Hotel101, The Archive Booth.

Head on over to https://billboardphilippines.com/ for more stories on Billboard Mainstage.

Meet the editorial team ready to shape the future of men’s fashion in the Southeast Asian region.

VMAN, the renowned men’s fashion magazine, is set to debut its first edition outside the U.S. with VMAN SEA under One Mega Group, Inc. (OMGI). As the launch approaches this year, VMAN Southeast Asia proudly presents a powerhouse team dedicated to revolutionizing men’s style throughout the region.

The team is led by a trio of fashion and media experts: Patrick Ty as Chief of Editorial Content, Vince Uy as Creative Director, and Rex Atienza as Fashion Editor.

Taking the helm, Ty shares: “We are excited to introduce today’s Southeast Asian man—in all our entirety—to the world and each other, through the lens of popular culture and fashion.” Ty is the current Creative Chief of MEGA Magazine, whose extensive background in Philippine media and fashion includes earning an Excellence in Asian Fashion Citation. With his passion and determination, Ty is geared to elevate VMAN SEA’s content and design for both print and digital platforms. 

Stepping in as Creative Director is Vince Uy, a multifaceted professional with expertise in advertising, publishing, fashion, and social media. Uy’s creative vision will shape the magazine’s visual identity. “Every page will reflect [the modern Southeast Asian man’s] journey, celebrating not just fashion, but the raw, personal moments that shape him. Ultimately, this is about more than just trends—it’s about the ever-evolving concept of masculinity,” shares Uy. 

Joining as Fashion Editor is Rex Atienza, whose experience of over 18 years in the industry brings a unique blend of contemporary flair and entrepreneurial spirit to the magazine’s fashion narrative. “Full circle moments are rare, but here I am, back where it all started—except now with a lot more fashion faux pas under my belt and a deep respect for the new generation of style visionaries. Honored, excited, and ready to blend old-school flair with fresh talent.” 

For a well-rounded perspective on men’s fashion in the Southeast Asian region, talents from Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia, will also be commissioned as creative consultants. 

With a dedicated team on board, VMAN SEA is set to make a meaningful impact, blending local expertise with a global vision tailored for the modern Southeast Asian man.

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

This leadership addition is set to boost both efficiency and creativity across Modern Media Group Inc.’s brands.

AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) announces the appointment of seasoned marketer Nikki Balboa as the new Head of Operations for its Modern Media Group (MMGI) subsidiary.

Home to international media brands Nylon Manila, Billboard Philippines, Rolling Stone Philippines, and Robb Report Philippines, Balboa will be responsible for overseeing and streamlining operations across these influential platforms. Balboa says, “I love the thrill of finding ways to organize systems and still ensure creativity. I’m all for creating synergy in systems and creativity.”

Balboa brings over 16 years of leadership experience in marketing and communications, having held various key positions at GOLDEN ABC, Inc. (The Penshoppe Group). Her most recent role as Head of Marketing for Penshoppe saw her directing large-scale marketing strategies, international collaborations, and partnerships with globally recognized brands and personalities. Her proven track record of optimizing marketing operations, leading cross-functional teams, and driving impactful brand campaigns will be instrumental in her new role at MMGI.

With her deep understanding of operational management and brand strategy, Balboa is set to implement more cohesive and efficient workflows across MMGI’s media brands, ensuring operational synergy and driving greater productivity. Her leadership will help MMGI continue to deliver innovative and engaging content that resonates with its diverse audience. Anne Bernisca, Chief Operating Officer of MMGI, expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment: “Balboa’s remarkable experience and achievements in marketing and operations are a perfect fit for MMGI. We are confident that her strategic insight will lead to enhanced operational efficiency and innovation across our brands.”

Archie Carrasco, CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp., also shared his confidence in Balboa’s ability to elevate MMGI: “Balboa’s dedication to fostering local talent and her strong leadership capabilities align seamlessly with the vision we have for MMGI. Her forward-thinking approach will undoubtedly strengthen our brands’ market presence and influence.” In line with MMGI’s mission to uplift Philippine creativity and talent, Balboa aims to drive positive change and inclusivity through content, experiential events, and cutting-edge platforms. Her appointment reinforces MMGI’s commitment to advancing Philippine artistry and creativity on the global stage.

Balboa’s leadership is set to not only enhance MMGI’s operational capabilities but also propel its vision for growth, innovation, and excellence.

Robb Report Philippines announces veteran journalist Yvette Fernandez as its Chief of Editorial Content. Fernandez brings an impressive depth of experience and a passion for storytelling to one of the latest media brands in the AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) ecosystem.

Fernandez shared, “I’ve been a journalist for over 30 years, a storyteller for much longer.” Her early fascination with storytelling set the stage for a distinguished career that began with a column for the Manila Times, followed by significant roles at Bloomberg News New York and editorial leadership at Town & Country Philippines and Esquire Philippines. Fernandez’s recent role as Chief Storyteller for the Gokongwei Group honed her skills in corporate affairs and sustainability, preparing her for this exciting new chapter.

Robb Report, the authoritative voice in the luxury market, is set to debut in the country later this year through a partnership between Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI), a subsidiary of AGC Power Holdings Corp., and Penske Media Corporation (PMC). The publication will offer content tailored for the affluent, covering everything from travel and automobiles to real estate, fashion, watches, and more. Fernandez’s leadership will ensure that the Philippine edition upholds the global luxury standards that Robb Report is celebrated for while adding a unique local perspective.

“What I love about luxury lifestyle is that I’m constantly introduced to embodiments of excellence,” Fernandez expressed. “Intricately designed timepieces, automobiles, and works of art that take exceptional skill and time to create. Exquisite ingredients in the finest of dishes. The magic of theater, entertainment, and spectacle. Simple lines in a made-to-measure, well-cut suit. Expeditions to less-traveled destinations, each one a feast for the senses. I love telling these stories. They excite me.”

Enthusiastic about revisiting her passion for luxury journalism, Fernandez stated, “Print media came calling again and tugged at my heartstrings. And now I’m back doing what I love the most and what I likely do best, journalism. I’m thrilled to be back to my luxury lifestyle roots at Robb Report Philippines.”

Anne Bernisca, COO of Modern Media Group Inc., expressed her enthusiasm about Fernandez joining the team, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Yvette Fernandez to Robb Report Philippines. Yvette’s mastery in luxury journalism and her deep understanding of the world of high-end living are precisely what we need to continue curating content that embodies the very essence of sophistication and exclusivity. Her leadership will undoubtedly reinforce our commitment to delivering unparalleled insight and elevating the narrative of luxury for our discerning readers.”

Archie Carrasco, Publisher and CEO of Robb Report Philippines, also shared his excitement, noting, “I am honored to welcome Yvette Fernandez to our distinguished team at Robb Report Philippines. Yvette’s visionary approach to storytelling and her deep-rooted knowledge of the luxury landscape will be pivotal in expanding our influence beyond borders. Under her stewardship, Robb Report Philippines will not only uphold its status as the definitive guide to luxury in the Philippines but also fortify its connection to the global luxury community, ensuring that our voice resonates across continents and cements our place in the world of elite publishing.”

As Robb Report Philippines prepares to launch, Fernandez’s editorial leadership promises to deliver unparalleled content for discerning readers who seek to enjoy the finest things in life. “Robb Report Philippines is for people like you who work extremely hard to earn your money, and who deserve to spend it on whatever you please, the best of the best of everything,” Fernandez noted. “We’ll be happy to show you how to enjoy it.”

Stay tuned for the launch of Robb Report Philippines at https://robbreport.ph/

A globally experienced SEO specialist joins the AGC PHC team to fully optimize its media brands.

AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) proudly announces the appointment of Jeff Libanan as its new Head of Search and Analytics. Libanan brings an impressive two-decade experience in SEO, Social Media Marketing, Analytics, and Web Development, setting the stage for AGC PHC’s enhanced digital success.

Libanan’s tenure spans notable companies across the Philippines, Singapore, and Hong Kong, equipping him with a rich international perspective and strategic approach. Throughout his extensive career, Libanan has excelled in developing optimization strategies that significantly boost marketing performance. He has consistently monitored daily performance metrics to understand SEO strategy performance and efficiently communicated with other departments to align goals. 

Reflecting on his journey, he shares, “My career has been marked by a pursuit of excellence, a deep passion for data-driven strategies, and a commitment to staying ahead of industry trends. This dedication has ultimately led me to the position of Head of Search and Analytics at AGC PHC, where I am excited to leverage my extensive background to drive growth and innovation.”

As the new Head of Search and Analytics, Libanan will analyze market trends, develop and implement effective SEO campaigns, and continuously optimize web presence.  “My goal is to create a cohesive and impactful SEO strategy that not only boosts rankings but also fosters long-term success for all our brands under the AGC PHC umbrella,” says Libanan. 

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.