From idea generation to talent sourcing, music production, and event execution, AGC PHC’s Marketing Subsidiaries Group delivered a successful launch for one of its premium clients. 

On a Monday morning at 7 AM, unsuspecting commuters riding the BGC bus were met with a priceless surprise. Darren Espanto, disguised as an ordinary passenger, serenaded commuters with an impromptu performance on board a BGC bus. At the next stop, he continued to surprise more passengers waiting in line by serenading them with more songs. The energy escalated when G-Force , led by Teacher Geoercelle, took over the stop with an electrifying flash mob. Darren joined the dancers for the finale, holding up a Mastercard card and announcing that commuting is now made more easy with the expanded payment option of BEEP. Through a partnership with Mastercard, passengers can now tap and go on the BGC bus—no cash or lines required. The moment was met with cheers and excitement, signaling the success of the event.

^{Darren Espanto surprising passengers with a song}

This activation, a first for Mastercard in the Philippines, also marked a first for AGC Power Holding Corp.’s (AGC PHC) Marketing Subsidiaries Group (MSG). This campaign showcased the full capabilities of MSG: KLiQ led the creative efforts of the campaign, from conceptualization to scriptwriting and storyboarding, DigistarPH took charge of sourcing the right talents, facilitating negotiations, and ensuring deliverables were met efficiently, 7640 Inc. composed and produced the original music used for the flash mob performance, and Events100 managed logistics which included wrapping the bus and identifying the perfect route to take, securing necessary permits, and coordinating with event and BGC staff. MSG worked together to deliver a seamless activation for Mastercard.

^{Darren Espanto, Teacher Georcelle and her GForce team energizing the crowd}

Carmelli Daet, AVP of Business Development at AGC PHC, reflected on the project’s success, “This collaboration is something you won’t find anywhere else. It’s an integrated approach where clients don’t need to engage with multiple agencies just to execute one campaign. The Marketing Subsidiaries Group has everything under one roof. Our subsidiaries work well with the power as one, creating a synergy that drives results. The client was happy with the outcome, and we’re proud to have exceeded their expectations.”

For clients looking for a streamlined, all-in-one solution to their marketing needs, AGC PHC’s Marketing Subsidiaries Group offers a priceless service—deliver a successful campaign execution from start to finish.

After three years as HR Manager, Orpilla steps into a bigger role to lead one of AGC PHC’s subsidiaries.

AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) announces the appointment of Vannie Orpilla as General Manager of Shopping Universe Network Inc. (SUNI). SUNI, known by most as  SariSari.Shopping, merges with the Circulations department to become AGC PHC’s main distribution channel, which will cover e-commerce, brick and mortar stores, and firm sales.

Before joining AGC PHC, Orpilla was first an Executive Assistant at a real estate conglomerate where she learned stock market basics as part of her duties and responsibilities. Years later, as Managing Partner of a restaurant chain, she widened her experience in business operations. 

Orpilla joined AGC PHC in 2022 as HR Supervisor. With her natural leadership abilities, she was quickly promoted to HR Manager. In the same year, her dedication was further recognized when she was named one of the company’s LEAD Awardees (formerly called TOEY Awards), an annual recognition for outstanding leaders within the organization. 

Of the lessons she learned through the years, Orpilla values learning the difference between managing and leading a team. She says, “It’s easy to manage people, but to truly lead them—that is a calling. Leadership requires sacrifice: putting the team before yourself, and making decisions that are not always easy but are always right. It’s about creating an environment where people feel valued, respected, and empowered to be their best selves.” 

With a deep commitment to nurturing both people and the business, Orpilla is ready to bring SUNI toward continued success. 

MEGA has been at the forefront of Philippine fashion for over 30 years. Now, this homegrown brand is setting its sights on broader horizons in the region.

Launched in 1992 as the Philippines’ first glossy fashion magazine, MEGA—a proudly Filipino media brand—is now expanding its reach across Asia. As part of this exciting move, MEGA is rebranding as MEGA Asia, reflected in its print issues and new digital domain, mega-asia.com. Soon, the magazine will also hit newsstands across the region. 

“This expansion presents a significant opportunity for MEGA,” says Ramon Galicia, COO of One MEGA Group Inc. (OMG). He explains, “Asia is a region with rapid economic advancement and a booming luxury market where the brand can thrive.” 

Beyond growth, this expansion also responds to the pressing need for women’s empowerment in Asia—a cause that MEGA has long championed through its iconic MEGA Woman. Despite Asia’s advancement, progress on women’s empowerment has been slow, with the economic gender gap remaining particularly deep, according to WeEmpowerAsia, a UN Women initiative. To address this, MEGA—once deeply rooted in Philippine fashion and lifestyle—now expands to celebrate and empower women across Asia. “We aim to amplify diverse female narratives and create a platform where Asian women are seen, heard, and empowered,” says Galicia. “Through fashion, storytelling, and advocacy, MEGA seeks to help bridge the gap, inspiring women across the region to embrace their strength and potential.”

As the first step in this strengthened commitment to celebrating women, MEGA magazine’s February issue honors one of the Philippines’ most inspiring figures—former Vice President Leni Robredo. Peewee Isidro, Chief of Editorial Content of MEGA, shares, “It was vital to choose the right individual to represent our issue and Leni Robredo embodies Filipina empowerment because she has shown the capacity to inspire women, not just with her words and actions, but with her daily life. She is truly an icon for Filipinos.” MEGA highlights the former VP’s enduring legacy through the Angat Buhay Foundation, where she focuses on empowering marginalized communities and advocating for social change.

Robredo on the cover is just the beginning for MEGA. Future covers and features will spotlight game-changing women from diverse backgrounds, industries, perspectives, and education—showcasing that empowerment takes many forms and is an essential part of every Asian woman’s journey.

Head on over to the new https://mega-asia.com/ to read inspiring stories about the women of Asia. Don’t miss the latest February 2025 cover story featuring Leni Robredo

The Business Manual, the premier digital magazine for industry leaders and entrepreneurs, hosted its second CEO Awards on January 27 at Shangri-La The Fort, BGC. Under the theme “Honoring Industry Disruptors,” the event recognized visionaries who have reshaped business landscapes, pushed boundaries, and created lasting impact in their industries.

In his opening speech, Ramon Galicia, COO of One MEGA Group Inc. (OMGI), emphasized the significance of thought leadership in an ever-evolving business environment: “This is of utmost significance in the current business landscape because our world is changing at an unprecedented pace. Business abhors the uncertainty caused by these changes. But I am optimistic for our future. I am optimistic because of the people gathered here today whom we are honoring.”

This year’s CEO Awards celebrated 21 exceptional individuals who exemplify innovation, adaptability, strategic governance, brand influence, and societal contribution. Among the honorees were industry leaders from various sectors who continue to drive the country forward:

All the 21 honorees of the CEO Awards

• Dr. Aivee Aguilar-Teo, Co-Founder and President of The Aivee Group
• Eugene Acevedo, President and CEO of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC)
• Antonio Co, President and CEO of Carrascal Nickel Corporation
• Dr. Steve Mark Gan, Founder and Chairman of the GAOC Group
• Vic Del Rosario Jr., Chairman and CEO of Viva Communications
• Herbert Consunji, Executive Vice President and Chief Finance Officer of DMCI Holdings
• Irwin Lee, President and CEO of Universal Robina Corporation (URC)
• William Tiu-Lim, Founder and Chairman of Mega Prime Foods, Inc.
• Ana Lorenzana De Ocampo, President and CEO of Wildflour Hospitality Group
• Dennis Anthony Uy, Founder, CEO, and Executive Director of Converge ICT Solutions, Inc.
• Rosemarie Rafael, Chairperson and CEO of Airspeed
• Jonathan Ng, Vice Chairman of Rebisco
• Justin Uy, Founder and CEO of Profood International Corporation
• Benjamin Yao, Chairman and CEO of SteelAsia
• Delfin ‘Buds’ Wenceslao, CEO of DM Wenceslao and Associates
• Ben Chan, Founder and CEO of Bench (Suyen Corporation)
• Kevin Tan, CEO of Alliance Global Group Inc. (AGI)
• Clinton Campos Hess, CEO and Chairman of UNILAB Group
• Martha Sazon, President and CEO of Mynt (Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc.)
• Mark ‘Jappy’ Gonzalez, Founder and Managing Director at H&F Retail Concepts, Inc.
• Betty Ang, President and Co-Founder of Monde Nissin Corporation

In addition to recognizing individual leaders, the CEO Awards 2025 honored organizations that demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting and empowering Filipino entrepreneurs. The Enterprise Catalyst Award was presented to:

• Philippine Retailers Association (Received by Roberto Claudio Sr., President)
• Go Negosyo (Received by Joey Concepcion, Founder)
• Philippine Franchise Association (Received by Samie Lim, Chairman Emeritus and Founding President)

As the evening came to a close, RJ Ledesma, Editor-in-Chief of The Business Manual, raised a toast to the honorees: “Each of our honorees has proven that true leadership isn’t just about adapting to change but about creating it. You are the industry disruptors who challenge the status quo, redefine what’s possible, and inspire the next generation of trailblazers.”

The Business Manual’s CEO Awards serves as a beacon for the next generation of disruptors—continuing the media brand’s mission to inform, involve, and inspire through stories of groundbreaking leadership.

Special thanks to co-presenters Martell Cognac and Royal Salute, event partners Victor Consunji Development Corporation, BAKEN, and official media partner UNIQUECORN Strategies.

Kicking off the year with fresh energy, the company welcomed more team members representing the next generation of creatives

AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) continues to expand at an impressive pace with the addition of major international titles such as Rolling Stone Philippines, Allure Philippines, Robb Report Philippines, and VMAN Southeast Asia in 2024. With this strategic growth, AGC PHC welcomes a new generation of talent—young, dynamic individuals eager to shape the future of media.

To welcome its new team members, the company hosted the first of four engaging onboarding events, for the new hires to build connections and align with a shared vision. CEO Archie Carrasco personally greeted each newcomer, taking the time to share his own journey—reflecting on the lessons he’s learned, the obstacles he’s overcome, and the vision that continues to drive AGC PHC forward.

Recognizing the value of fresh perspectives, he highlighted the potential of new talents to bring bold ideas and forward-thinking strategies, “You learn wisdom from veterans, but we gain fresh ideas from new people. I’m excited to see how your ideas shape the future of AGC PHC.”

The event wrapped up on a high note, with delicious food, flowing drinks, and lively discussions, giving the new team members a chance to connect with their peers beyond a workplace setting.

Special thanks to The Black Box for providing our drinks

As AGC PHC continues its growth, it remains dedicated to empowering its people—encouraging them to collaborate meaningfully and think boldly. And, with a dynamic team leading the charge, the future of AGC PHC has never been more promising.

Rolling Stone Philippines made its highly anticipated debut, shaking up the Philippine media scene with an unforgettable “ICONS ONLY” night at The Peninsula Manila’s Salon de Ning. The event was a celebration of culture with rockstars, icons, and luminaries in attendance to mark the brand’s arrival.

The evening was led by the core team behind Rolling Stone Philippines, as they shared the magazine’s bold vision. MMGI COO Anne Bernisca kicked things off, emphasizing that Rolling Stone Philippines would be a game-changer for the industry. “By adding Rolling Stone Philippines to our roster of international titles, we are taking a step toward revolutionizing the local media landscape,” she said. Chief of Editorial Content Jonty Cruz followed, unveiling the new “attitude” the publication would bring: “Rolling Stone Philippines is not just here to honor what came before; it’s here to create new narratives.” Digital Editor Sai Versailles, equally excited about the magazine’s potential, added, “We want to create immersive experiences that push boundaries while staying true to the values of gonzo journalism that Rolling Stone has always been known for.”

Indeed, Rolling Stone Philippines aims to continue the brand’s legacy by covering not just music, but also societal issues and culture through a distinctly Filipino lens. With a wealth of untold stories, Rolling Stone Philippines is here to reflect the unique voice of the nation. Cruz put it perfectly: “It’s all about cultural impact. Even within the editorial team, we all have our own definition of a rockstar. For me, it’s all of these people who’ve changed culture and the industries they’re part of.”

This was exemplified by the highlight of the evening—the launch of the Rolling Stone Philippines website. The site went live with its first digital rollouts, including an exclusive interview with Ely Buendia, who reflects on his legacy and his new solo album, Method Adaptor. The digital lineup also featured Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, delving into her activism, the state of Philippine politics, and the path to a progressive future. Both Buendia and Hontiveros are icons in their own right: one revolutionizing music, the other reshaping the political arena.

The night capped off with a performance by Filipino classic rock band Razorback, who lit up the event with their hits, including “Payaso” and crowd favorite “Wakasan”. The energy then continued with the afterparty scored by DJ Honey. 

Rolling Stone Philippines’ first print issue is slated for release in March 2025. This edition will mark the publication’s 15th international edition and the only one currently available in Southeast Asia, cementing the Philippines as a key player in the global Rolling Stone family.

The visionary behind the country’s largest media company continues to lead with purpose in another role at Vogue Philippines

Archie Carrasco, Chairman, and CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC), has taken on the role of Publisher of Vogue Philippines, further cementing his leadership of the media brand.

At the helm of the Philippines’ media powerhouse, Carrasco has been recognized not only for his expertise but also for his purpose-driven leadership. He founded AGC PHC with the vision of transforming the Philippine media landscape, a vision he has successfully brought to life.

His journey has always been guided in the belief that stories should have a meaningful impact. “My goal has always been to reignite the Philippine media scene and create a platform that connects the Philippines to the world,” he shares. Under his wing, AGC PHC has launched a diverse array of media brands that amplify the narratives of Filipinos.

The introduction of Vogue Philippines in 2022 marked a key milestone in this journey. Since its launch, the magazine has quickly become a leading platform for showcasing Filipino artistry, fashion, and culture. 

Now, as Publisher of Vogue Philippines, Carrasco will take a more hands-on role in the magazine’s editorial direction. This shift will allow him to further refine Vogue Philippines’ editorial strategy, ensuring each narrative anchored on purpose. Carrasco’s involvement promises to elevate Vogue Philippines even further, ensuring that the brand remains a dominant voice for Philippine craft and creativity Filipinos across the globe.

About Archie G. Carrasco

As the founder and sole owner of AGC Power Holdings Corp., Carrasco commands a media conglomerate that includes One Mega Group, Inc. (OMGI), Modern Media Group, Inc. (MMGI), and MEGA Global Licensing, Inc. (MGLI).

Under his stewardship, Carrasco has cultivated an unparalleled portfolio of titles that celebrate Filipino excellence and global influence. OMGI boasts iconic publications such as MEGA, Lifestyle Asia, Bluprint, The Business Manual, Modern Parenting, and The Game. MMGI brings global prestige to the local market with powerhouse titles like Nylon Manila, Billboard Philippines, Rolling Stone Philippines, and Robb Report Philippines.

As Chairman and CEO of MGLI, Carrasco leads the exclusive partnership with Condé Nast, redefining excellence through Allure and the prestigious Vogue Philippines. 

Under AGC Power Holdings Corp., Carrasco has also established a dynamic Marketing and Retail Services Group, completing an unparalleled media and marketing ecosystem. This group includes DigistarPH, an influencer marketing and global PR powerhouse; KLiQ, a cutting-edge creative and content creation agency; and Events100, a boutique events agency specializing in bespoke experiences.

VMAN SEA gathered the region’s most stylish men and powerhouse creatives to celebrate the magazine’s inaugural Killer Fashion Issue.

The vanguard of men’s fashion made a bold entrance into the SEA region with the release of its first printing, The Killer Fashion Issue. The launch party at VSpot – One Raffles Place, Singapore – gathered together some of the most stylish and influential men of the region.

VMAN SEA is the first international venture of  One MEGA Group Inc. (OMGI). OMGI COO and VMAN SEA Publisher Ramon Galicia expressed his pride: “For five exhilarating months, the team poured their heart and soul into making this launch [issue] a reality. This milestone marks the first foreign edition of VMAN, OMGI’s first international title, and Southeast Asia’s first regional men’s publication.”

Galicia further expounded, “Every issue highlights a curated list of personalities called “VMEN”, each representing a dynamic collective of multifaceted talents poised to redefine the cultural landscape. They bring together the world of fashion, music, film, and visual arts.”

The maiden issue launched with a three-part cover featuring three prominent figures from Southeast Asia: Filipino actor and singer Kyle Echarri, Indonesian pop and R&B icon Afgan, and Thai actor, model, and entrepreneur Pachara “Peach” Chirathivat. The issue also highlighted VMEN Brent Manalo and Duong Minh Dang apart from in-depth features on Southeast Asian fashion, music, and culture.

At the helm of the magazine is Chief of Editorial Content Patrick Ty, who reflected, “The inaugural issue was a love letter to the world from us. For too long, the global narrative of Asian masculinity and style has been filtered through an outside perspective. But VMAN Southeast Asia is changing that narrative. We’re not just part of the conversation. We’re leading it. We created the issue because it’s our time to tell our story, from our perspective, in our voice, and through our lens.”

Celebrating the multifaceted identity of today’s Southeast Asian man, the launch of VMAN SEA sent  a clear message: it’s time for the world to see Southeast Asian men through an authentic, stylish, and groundbreaking lens. Welcome to the world of VMAN Southeast Asia.

CRAVE is an invitation to experience Manila’s gastronomic landscape in a way that’s immersive, educational, and deeply curated.

Lifestyle Asia embarks on a flavorful new venture with CRAVE, its first-ever coffee table book that promises far more than a collection of beautiful spreads. Featuring 15 of Metro Manila’s iconic restaurants, the book serves as a guide to the culinary artistry and experiences that define the city’s evolving dining scene.

^{A glimpse into the pages of Lifestyle Asia CRAVE}

From longtime favorites to hidden discoveries, CRAVE provides an in-depth look into each restaurant’s inner workings—the brilliant chefs, culinary techniques, and visionary owners that make each dining experience unique. 

^{The Lifestyle Asia CRAVE launch with executives}

Through the expert guidance of Pepper Teehankee, Arts and Food Editor at Lifestyle Asia, CRAVE came to life. “It was a challenge to come up with the material for a coffee table book within six months, but with the help of the hardworking Lifestyle Asia team and patient writers and photographers, it actually happened. It couldn’t have been done without them.”

^{Lifestyle Asia Editor-in-Chief Candy Dizon delivering her opening remarks}

CRAVE was launched on October 26 in an intimate gathering at Crystal Dragon, City of Dreams, where Editor-in-Chief Candy Dizon introduced the book’s vision. “With the Lifestyle Asia Experience, we aim to take CRAVE beyond its pages. Select restaurants featured in CRAVE will offer an exclusive Lifestyle Asia menu, curated especially for our readers, making this journey truly special and one-of-a-kind,” Dizon shared.”

With this innovative offering, CRAVE transforms from a book into an immersive journey, extending into real dining experiences that let readers savor the essence of Manila’s culinary scene firsthand.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, CRAVE opens up a personal culinary journey, offering inspiration, insights, and the very best of Manila’s culinary scene. CRAVE is now available for purchase, bringing Manila’s finest dining experiences right into your home at https://sarisari.shopping/products/lifestyle-asia-crave.

From skincare science to makeup mastery, MEGA created an academy for a day to discuss all things beauty.  

Since 2019, MEGA BeautyCon has been bringing enthusiasts together for a day dedicated to beauty and wellness. Now in its fourth iteration, MEGA transformed Glorietta Activity Center into a bustling Beauty Academy, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in expert-led masterclasses and interactive brand experiences. With this year’s theme focusing on “going back to the basics,” the event encouraged guests to brush up on essential beauty knowledge.  

^{MEGA Beauty Director Agoo Azcuna-Bengzon delivering her opening remarks}

The program began with a warm welcome from MEGA Beauty Director Agoo Azcuna-Bengzon, who emphasized the crucial role of education in the industry, “Education was something that I deemed important in the world of beauty. I always felt that my calling was to give readers something that they could keep in their hearts and minds forever.”

^{Five masterclasses at MEGA BeautyCon (Top to Bottom, Left to Right): Your Best Hair by Suyen Salazar, The Perfect Base by Jason Delos Reyes, Glazed Brush and Sculpted Lips by Thazzia Falek, Sparkly Lids by Janica Cleto, Scalp Health and Wellness by Mark Anthony Rosales}

Mastering the Basics: Class in Session

MEGA BeautyCon 2024 covered various beauty classes each led by a renowned artist who shared foundational techniques alongside the latest trends.

• “Your Best Hair” by Suyen Salazar demonstrated techniques for healthy, stylish hair with content creator Nicole Andersson, showing attendees how to create hairstyles that are both practical and transformative.
• “The Perfect Base” by Makeup Artist Jason Delos Reyes guided guests through flawless foundation application, prepping model Lou Yanong’s skin, walking attendees through each step, from priming to setting the face.
• “Glazed Blush and Sculpted Lips” by Thazzia Falek, known for her expertise in fresh makeup looks, shared her techniques for achieving the perfect glazed blush and contoured lips, with Miss Grand Philippines 2023, Nikki de Moura, as her muse.
• “Sparkly Lids” by Janica Cleto walked attendees through achieving sparkly, statement eyes. With Raejell Roxas as her model, Cleto encouraged attendees to think outside the box and play with colors.
• “Scalp Health and Wellness” by hairstylist and salon owner Mark Anthony Rosales featured a hair scanner demonstration with actress Sofia Pablo to emphasize the crucial link between understanding scalp health and achieving gorgeous hair.

Celebrity entrepreneurs and ambassadors also graced the stage to share their beauty secrets. Internet personality Small Laude spoke enthusiastically about her Pure Beauty Collagen routine. Former beauty queen and entrepreneur Celeste Cortesi introduced her lip care brand, Asul, which she founded to promote lip health. Beauty content creator Joselle Alandy highlighted her positive experiences with Barenbliss products, especially for sensitive skin types.

^{Sit-own talks with Small Laude, Celeste Cortesi, and Joselle Alandy}

Hall Pass: Exploring Brand Booths

In between classes, attendees explored an array of interactive brand booths surrounding the activity center. MEGA’s lineup of partner brands filled the venue with activities including Aivee Skin, Y.O.U. Beauty, Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group, Fairy Skin, Baren Bliss, Pina Skincare, Dazzle Me, Real Perfection, RPS Aesthetics, Pure Beauty Collagen, Zionne Beauty, Lavojoy, Asul, Smarter Dose, and Gorgeous Glow. Attendees discovered and tried new products and connected directly with the brands through its representatives. Several brand representatives took the stage to share brand stories, transforming what would usually be downtime into mini-beauty lessons.

^{Different brand booths}

For attendees who visited each booth and completed their attendance cards, MEGA offered an exclusive Beauty Bag packed with MEGA Magazine’s latest issue and product samples from participating brands. It was a perfect take-home bundle for anyone looking to extend the day’s beauty discoveries.

^{Guests lining up for freebies}

Class Dismissed: Lessons Learned 

From revisiting those school days to mastering the essential principles of beauty, MEGA BeautyCon 2024 offered a refreshing experience for all attendees. As the event drew to a close, participants were reminded that even in the ever-evolving beauty industry, a strong foundation can truly make a difference.

The event highlighted the endless opportunities for growth, whether through refining skills or discovering new favorite products. With newfound knowledge and inspiration, attendees left empowered to embrace their unique beauty journeys and confidently showcase their individual styles.

Watch out for MEGA BeautyCon as it continues to be a dedicated platform for beauty and wellness in the years to come. 

Head on over to https://mega-onemega.com/ for more information about MEGA BeautyCon.