Behind the celebration that weaved Philippine culture, creativity, and community into the world. 

As one of the busiest weeks in global fashion unfolded in Paris, Vogue Philippines made its own mark with Vogue Threads, a celebration of Filipino artistry and creativity. The event commemorated Vogue Philippines’ second anniversary with an exceptional showcase of Filipino craftsmanship held at the famed Palais Galliera on September 25, 2024.

^{The Vogue Threads setup at Palais Galliera in Paris}

Since 1977, the Palais, once known as the Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris, has displayed treasures from French royalty, ensembles worn by Hollywood celebrities, and creations by renowned designers like Balenciaga, Dior, and Givenchy.

The Philippines took a historic step with Vogue Threads by featuring the works of 23 talented Filipino designers. Vogue Threads masterfully connected the country’s rich heritage with modern fashion through exquisite designer maquettes or miniature mannequins that display the intricate artistry of Filipino designers. The exhibition, curated by Gawad CCP Awardee Gino Gonzales, featured the works of 23 Filipino designers, including Nazareno, Sarenas, Laurel, Caluza, Padilla, Bagasao, and more. Each piece was showcased on locally crafted wooden maquettes, a traditional technique used by European couturiers, reimagined through the artistry of Palawan artisans.

^{Showcase of Filipino designs}

The designs drew inspiration from guiding stars, traditional basket weaving, glistening grains of rice, taklobo mollusks, the pages of history, and the love of grandmothers, reflecting the different narratives of the Philippine islands.

^{Other notable guests in attendance}

The glamorous affair drew out fashion icons and industry leaders from around the globe. Vogue’s legendary Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour, made a special appearance and took a tour of the exhibition. The event also welcomed international Vogue editors such as Mark Guiducci, Vena Brykalin, and Bettina von Schlippe. Other notable guests included renowned models Mathieu Simoneau, Coco Rocha, Chloe Magno, and Kelsey Merritt, filmmaker Isabel Sandoval, and Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena. 

^{Bea Valdes addressing guests during her opening speech} 

In her speech welcoming esteemed guests to the event, Bea Valdes, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Philippines said, “From Batanes to Basilan, from Pasig to Paris and beyond. We continue to write, with each issue, a love letter to our archipelago. Tonight, we take this momentous step together, daring to imagine that every pioneering journey is a step in evolution.” 

Arriane Sanchez, Head of Events Production and Global Circulations, recounted the journey of creating Vogue Threads, noting that preparations took nearly eight months. During that time, the team also organized other significant events, such as the Vogue Man launch and Vogue Talks with Imran Amed. “Behind the scenes, we were also working on the Vogue Threads Paris Project. Since February, it has been the major topic during our weekly publishing meetings,” Sanchez shared. She added, “Vogue is definitely one of the most exciting media brands to work with and with an incredible entire team, we managed to pull off milestone events like this.”

^{AGC PHC Head of Events Production and Global Circulations, Arriane Sanchez}

^{Renders vs actual setup by AGC PHC team}

The planning stage with the AGC PHC team

Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp. and Publisher of Vogue Philippines expressed the same sentiment, “It was a moment that solidified our place in the international fashion landscape as we continue to elevate Filipino culture on the world stage. It feels only right to thank the dedicated team who made this vision come to life.”

^{Group photo at Vogue Threads event} 

Carrasco continued, “The collective pride of being Filipino is at the heart of everything we do.” Through the lens of fashion, Vogue Threads became another love letter from the Philippines to the world that beautifully connected the country’s cultural richness to the global stage.

It was an evening for the icons, trailblazers, and disruptors of fashion and beauty. 

After a three-year hiatus, the MEGA Fashion Awards (MEGA) made a grand comeback last September 13 at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater to celebrate today’s established names and rising talents in the fashion and beauty industry.  

A MEGA Return

Launched in 2001, the MEGA Fashion Awards has long been considered one of the industry’s most coveted accolades, honoring the Philippines’ most dynamic fashion and beauty icons and celebrating emerging talents. Editor-in-Chief of MEGA Magazine Peewee Isidro says, “It’s only fitting that we bring back the MFA. Firstly, because we have to celebrate the many exciting new creatives and the thrilling new paths they’re taking. And secondly, for some of us who were there for the 2001 iteration, to see the remarkable journey that we have all taken.”

This year’s theme, “Resurgence”, gave a powerful tribute to reinvention. The awards night highlighted the perseverance and resilience of those who kept the industry alive, despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic in 2021. 

Isidro explains, “The Philippine fashion scene is vastly different, but also still mostly the same. It’s different because it is undergoing a resurgence, fueled by a new generation of creatives who are making their own way, while paying respect and homage to their predecessors, a new appreciation for original Filipino creations, traditions, and crafts that go beyond the Filipiniana. It’s a glorious new world, and MEGA is right in the center.”

The MEGA Winners 

The event was hosted by Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Marquez Dee, alongside TV host and creative director, Raymond Gutierrez. Together, they led the celebration of 44 outstanding awardees across five key categories: The Next, The Most Influential, The Best, The Disruptors, and MEGA Icon. The criteria selection focused on originality, transformative impact, forward-thinking innovation, and socially conscious purpose.

Some of the night’s honorees included:

• The Next Category: Bethany Talbot for The Next Model Award, Lucky Beauty for The Next Breakthrough Filipino Beauty Brand, Roko Arceo for The Next Stylist, Renz Reyes for The Next Creative Visionary
• The Most Influential Category: Pia Wurtzbach for Most Influential in Fashion, Liege Perey for Most Influential in Beauty, Patton for Most Influential Local Brand, BYS for Most Influential Global Beauty Brand
• The Best Category: Anne Curtis for Best Global Beauty, Nadine Lustre for Best Celebrity Style, Rajo Laurel for Best Fashion House, Ivarluski Aseron for Best Runway Show
• The Disruptors Category: Kyle Echarri for Most Fearless Style, SB19 and BINI for Cultural Impact Award, Vestido for Sustainable Fashion Initiative Award, Vince Uy for Best Tech-Driven Creative
• MEGA Icon: One of the most notable awards was given to Heart Evangelista as MEGA Icon

With the industry entering a new era of reinvention, MEGA’s Fashion Awards return marks not just the resurgence of an iconic event, but a bold step forward for emerging Filipino talent. As the night ended with applause, it became clear that this is only the beginning of a more daring future for fashion and beauty in the Philippines.

To view the full list of awardees/honorees of Mega Fashion Awards, head on to https://mega-onemega.com/mega-fashion-awards/. 

Photographed by ED SIMON, KIM SANTOS, TIMOTHY DUEÑAS

MEGA Fashion Awards 2024 trophies are courtesy of JOSEPH RASTRULLO and PIRASO

Special thanks to NORDIC SPIRIT, HYUNDAI, YAMAHA MOTOR PHILIPPINES, BYS, GRAB, AVIA FINE JEWELRY, and GLUTALIPO

An official House Resolution commended Vogue Philippines for its iconic issue featuring the oldest cover star in the magazine’s history

In its April 2023 beauty issue, Vogue Philippines challenged the norm by fronting the oldest cover star in Vogue history — 106-year-old Kalinga mambabatok (traditional tattooist) Apo Whang-Od. Photographed by Artu Nepomuceno, the cover celebrated the allure of gray hair, aged skin, and elaborate tattoos. The issue also highlighted the cultural significance of maintaining a thousand-year-old tattooing tradition, passed down to different generations by Whang-Od. Vogue Philippines’ bold move gained worldwide applause, sparking dialogues on the true essence of beauty.

For its continued global impact, the House of Representatives of the Philippines adopted House Resolution 1949 to officially congratulate and commend Vogue Philippines. The resolution states, “The April 2023 Vogue Philippines’ Beauty issue cover is groundbreaking on so many levels, prompting international personalities and celebrities to notice and admire the beauty and power of its featured model.”

Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Philippines Bea Valdes reflects on the achievement saying, “As part of the creative industries, and the Philippine edition of Vogue, it has been our privilege to share stories of our Filipino culture and our countrymen’s accomplishments with our local and global audiences.” 

In addition to the adoption of House Resolution 1949, a copy of the resolution will be officially furnished to Vogue Philippines, Apo Whang-Od, and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

Read the April 2023 Apo Whang-Od cover story by Vogue Philippines at https://www.vogue.com/article/apo-whang-od-and-the-indelible-marks-of-filipino-identity

AGC Power Holdings Corp. elevates the search for the next generation of changemakers 

The 32nd Agora Youth Awards (AYA): The Search for the Next Gen Z Changemakers, co-presented by AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC), culminated with the recognition of the top Junior Marketing Association (JMA) and Top Student of the Year last July 31 at the Westin Ortigas. AYA finalists, previous winners, and key industry figures were invited to the awards night.

The Power of We

The partnership between AYA and AGC PHC began with Carrasco delivering his first keynote address at the marketing conference, “Juan Big Idea,” organized by the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) and the Philippine Junior Marketing Association (PJMA), earlier this March. Carrasco himself was one of the few back-to-back Agora awardees in 2000 for both the individual and group categories, back when it was called TOMAS (Individual Category) and TOSMA (Group Category). 

Since meeting there, Director for Youth and Academe Leah Ayeng and the Agora Youth Awards Board of Directors knew that their fellow Agora awardee would be the perfect partner for AYA 2024. After meeting at the AGC PHC studios, an agreement was struck with Carrasco’s offer to “elevate” this year’s awards.

Agora Awardees Assemble

The final panel of judges included Carrasco and other fellow awardees and notable figures: 

• Albet Buddahim, VP and Chief Marketing Officer of Primer Group of Companies 
• Faye Martinez, Co-Founder and CEO of AQA Advertising, Inc.
• Jill Peña, Brand Marketing Director AC Mobility 
• Patricia Poco-Palacios, President and COO Global Dominion Financing, Inc. 
• Jos Ortega, Chairman and CEO of Havas Ortega.

After hearing the presentations of the top 15 individuals, the judges deliberated in private on the top marketing plans presented and who would best represent this batch as “valedictorian.”

Official Media Partner

A notable participant in the competition was AGC PHC’s media title, The Business Manual (TBM), which served as the official media partner. The 15 finalists were invited to the AGC PHC headquarters by TBM to have their photos taken, complete with grooming and studio setup. 

After the shoot, the students were given an office tour and introduced to different editorial team members of the various media brands housed under AGC PHC. Their final stop included a brief yet engaging talk with Carrasco. He took a break from his schedule to greet the students, share some words of wisdom, and snap a selfie with them.

And the award goes to…

The evening’s ceremony was marked by emotional and inspiring moments. The Top JMA award was proudly earned by Xavier University, while Valedictorian Mark Cruz from San Beda University Manila was honored as Top Student of the Year. The atmosphere was filled with tears of joy and pride as the winners were celebrated for their remarkable achievements. 

In his closing remarks, Carrasco expressed his admiration for the awardees and finalists, stating, “I see in each of you the same hope and ambition that I once carried. I see a generation ready to take on the world, to innovate, and to lead with integrity and passion. The future of marketing, and indeed the future of our society, is in your hands.” 

Full Circle

As co-presenter, AGC PHC played a crucial role in elevating this year’s event’s planning and production. Reflecting on his journey, Carrasco shared in his speech, “Two decades ago, I was in your shoes, a hopeful student, eager to carve out a path in the world of marketing and leadership. To be here now, in front of the bright, promising faces of our future marketers and leaders, is a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and unwavering perseverance.”

The event’s success was further highlighted by the remarks of Leah Ayeng, PMA Director for Youth and Academe. “Now in its 32nd year, PMA’s Youth and Academe initiatives take on a new approach with more innovative and practical approaches that will enrich our young marketer’s experience and expose them to the pivotal changes in the industry,” she stated. Ayeng also emphasized the collaborative effort that led to the event’s elevation, recounting how Carrasco personally approached her with the vision to enhance the 32nd AYA. Her affirmative response set the stage for AGC PHC and AYA to work closely together. 

Tastemakers from AGC PHC engaged in an in-depth discussion with BPI Affluent on their shared luxury market.

On July 16, 2024, over a light breakfast, AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC), hosted a dialogue with new friends from BPI Affluent, sharing insights and ideas on how to cater and talk to the luxury market.

Editorial executives across different media brands talk about luxury from the lens of their expertise. 

The panel discussion was expertly facilitated by RJ Ledesma, Editor-in-Chief of AGC PHC’s authority figure for entrepreneurship, The Business Manual. Topics covered included the appropriate tone of voice for luxury clientele, design elements that resonate with luxury clients, effective channels and platforms for reaching the luxury market, and regular practices for refining an eye for luxury.

The Business Manual Editor-in-Chief hosting the dialogue with BPI executives as the audience.

The distinguished panel featured notable speakers, including CEO of AGC PHC Archie G. Carrasco, COO of Mega Global Licensing Rhoda Campos-Aldanese, Managing Editor of Vogue Philippines Jacs Sampayan, Fashion Director of Vogue Philippines Pam Quiñones, Art Director of Vogue Philippines Jann Pascua, Editor-in-Chief of MEGA Magazine Peewee Reyes-Isidro, Creative Chief of MEGA Magazine Patrick Ty, Managing and Digital Editor of Lifestyle Asia Mawi Fojas-De Ocampo, and Editor-in-Chief of Lifestyle Asia Cany Dizon.

AGC PHC VP for Business Growth and Partnerships Randolf Palanca said of the dialogue, “The event marked a significant partnership between two esteemed legacy brands, united by our shared commitment to the luxury market.” 

AGC PHC is an esteemed name in media with titles ranging from the renowned homegrown MEGA Magazine to the international Vogue Philippines, while BPI is the first bank in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, also serving a prestigious list of clientele.

The team hosted a talk on the past, present, and future of fashion.

Vogue Philippines hosted a landmark event in its Vogue Talks series, featuring Imran Amed, CEO and Founder of Business of Fashion (BoF). The event took place last July 9 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, facilitated by Vogue Philippines’ Editor-in-Chief Bea Valdes and Fashion Director Pam Quiñones. Vogue Philippines’ goal to connect business leaders, experts, and visionaries with the Filipino creative community was embodied in this event that served as a vital platform for inspiration and dialogue.

Established in 2007, BoF grew from a personal blog to a leading authority in fashion, luxury, and beauty with more than one million subscribers in 190 countries; offering in-depth, unbiased coverage of the business aspects of fashion news, and insightful analysis on industry movements. 

With an audience that included both established leaders and aspiring creatives, Amed discussed a variety of thought-provoking topics. “The idea was to create a safe space for individuals to share their ideas and engage in discussions about the evolving fashion industry.” Amed emphasized the importance of supporting young creatives while balancing business interests. For aspiring professionals, Amed encouraged the alignment of skills, purpose, and passion. “Your passion is what you think about in your spare time when no one is paying you,” he noted. Amed expressed enthusiasm for the future of technology in fashion, championing experimentation and adaptation, merging advanced design with traditional craft. “If we don’t preserve creativity, it is in danger of being lost,” he shared.

Rhoda Campos-Aldanese, COO of Mega Global Licensing Inc. (MGLI) — the parent company of Vogue Philippines — and also a key figure in bringing this special Vogue Talks edition to life noted, “Our journey to this point began with a challenge from Mr. Archie Carrasco, our chairman, who envisioned bringing Imran Amed to the Philippines. Archie’s vision was to ensure that Imran Amed’s presence would send a strong message about the purpose of Vogue Talks: to inspire and educate while cementing our place as thought leaders in the fashion world.” 

Mega Global Licensing Inc. (MGLI) COO Rhoda Campos-Aldanese and Vogue Philippines Editor-in-Chief Bea Valdes

Editor-in-Chief Bea Valdes emphasized the collaborative effort, stating, “Vogue Talks would not be possible without all the different teams that contributed — from the director and his team to the management, sales, marketing, and events groups, and the Samsung theater team. To make everything seamless on stage takes multi-layered efforts from countless people. We are grateful to all of them.”

^{Exclusive dinner with select guests at Mirèio restaurant in Raffles Hotel, Makati}

After the inspiring talk, Amed attended an exclusive dinner with select guests at Mirèio restaurant in Raffles Hotel, Makati. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm Filipino welcome, marking his first return to the Philippines in 20 years.

Bea Valdes talks with Karen Davila on how Vogue Philippines sets itself apart with its narratives of inclusion, innovation, and sustainability.

Vogue Philippines has been applauded cover after cover for its distinctive approach in creating magazines with purposeful stories that break norms. Behind this editorial vision is Editor-in-Chief Bea Valdes who recently joined Karen Davila at Headstart on ANC to share insights into the title’s forward-thinking direction and influence.

After two years of sharing stories with the world, Valdes shared, “It’s starting to be a slice of who the Philippines is. It’s a good cross-section of how we see the community.” She described each issue as a love letter to the country, spotlighting individuals of diverse ages, backgrounds, and genders. Vogue Philippines has proven itself to move beyond the mainstream, filling the appetite for representation that no other magazine has fully explored. 

Vogue Philippines has made headlines by featuring Vogue’s oldest cover star for its beauty issue, Apo Whang-Od, the 106-year-old traditional tattoo artist from the Kalinga tribe. “It was the cover we never knew we needed,” Valdes remarked. The magazine continued to spotlight influential personalities such as National Scientist Dr. Dolores Ramirez, and environmentalists Ann and Billie Dumaliang of Masungi Georeserve. These issues have also tackled sustainability, addressing fashion’s significant contribution to waste. Valdes highlighted Vogue’s approach, emphasizing re-education, awareness, and promoting conscious choices. 

When asked about her favorite cover, Valdes expressed that it’s always the next one. Looking forward to future issues, she emphasized, “There are many things that exist that we can find in our own country that we just keep on having to tap into a deeper sense.” 

Watch the full interview and learn more about Vogue Philippines and its latest events | Source: ANC 24/7 YouTube

The global beauty expert will join the esteemed roster of MGLI 

In a significant milestone for the Filipino beauty industry, MEGA Global Licensing Inc. (MGLI) has announced the launch of Allure Philippines in 2025 through a licensing agreement with Condé Nast. This marks the first edition of Allure in the Southeast Asian region, reflecting its continued dedication to embracing the diversity of beauty. 

Allure has set the standard in all things beauty for over three decades, known for its comprehensive coverage from curating the ultimate product recommendations in makeup, offering essential self-care advice in skincare, to delving into the realm of holistic wellness. Among its popular features is the Best of Beauty Awards: an anticipated showcase of the top makeup, skincare, and hair care products on the market. In its longstanding influence, Allure has also opened dialogues that challenged norms, sparking conversations about different types of beauty regardless of age, skin color, and gender. Under the banner of Allure Philippines, this mission will be continued by offering narratives that elevate and celebrate Filipino beauty. 

Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC), the parent company of MGLI said, “We are excited to be part of this groundbreaking launch that promises to redefine beauty standards and empowerment in the Philippines. As a company that strongly supports innovations and partnerships that resonate with local and global audiences, we see the introduction of Allure Philippines as a pivotal development in promoting inclusive beauty and wellness solutions that cater to the unique needs of the Filipino market.” 

Head on over to allure.ph to stay updated on the upcoming launch and other exciting news. Follow @allurephilippines on Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, and Threads. 

AGC PHC strengthens its commitment to youth empowerment through a collaboration with the country’s leading marketing association

The Agora Youth Awards is an esteemed annual event recognizing young marketing change makers from colleges and universities across the country. Hosted by the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) and the Philippine Junior Marketing Association (PJMA), the 32nd iteration proudly welcomes AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) as co-presenter and The Business Manual as official media partner. A ceremonial contract signing with all partners was held at the AGC PHC studio last June 24, marking the official start of this exciting journey.

Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of AGC PHC and a former recipient of the Agora Youth Award (formerly TOMAS Award) in 2001, now assumes the role of co-presenter and judge. Reflecting on his journey, Carrasco expressed, “I’m very happy that we are now part of the Agora Youth Awards. My heart is full right now because it’s a full-circle moment — I was once a finalist, and now I’m a judge.”

Leah Ayeng, Director of Youth and Academe at PMA, extended her gratitude to Carrasco for his pivotal role in the collaboration. “This year’s event promises to be highly engaging for our participants,” she affirmed. “Through the help of our partners, we are taking this opportunity to elevate the experience of the finalists so they too can inspire and become future champions and changemakers in our marketing industry.”

Director of Youth and Academe Leah Ayeng and President Kathy Mercado of the PMA with AGC PHC CEO Archie G. Carrasco

This year’s focus on #sustAInabilitymarketing unveiled finalists who have excelled in sustainable innovation. The Agora Youth Awards will feature two categories: individual students and junior marketing associations or school organizations immersed in marketing.

AGC PHC sees this collaboration as an opportunity to reinforce its efforts in technology and sustainability while remaining dedicated to empowering youth, recognizing them as future trailblazers and leaders in the industry.

Promising to give back to his roots and nurture new talent, Carrasco emphasized AGC PHC’s wholehearted support for the event and expressed his genuine eagerness to welcome finalists who may wish to explore opportunities at AGC PHC.

The culmination of the awards, anticipated by participants and stakeholders alike, will take place on July 31 at Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay, Parañaque City.

AGC PHC executives engage in a dedicated forum with advertising students from one of the country’s top universities

In a convergence of academy and industry, the University of the Philippines Advertising Core (UP AdCore) – an organization dedicated to promoting awareness on effective and responsible advertising to the Filipino youth – collaborated with AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) for an enlightening talk last June 14 at the AGC PHC studio. 

The session was attended by AGC PHC’s executives including CEO Archie G. Carrasco, COO Ramon Galicia and Publisher Janine Recto of One MEGA Group Inc. (OMGI), and COO Anne Bernisca of Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI). It was a dive into navigating the lifestyle media discussing the processes of creating an issue, how to tap different markets, staying ahead of the curve, and more. 

Carrasco opened the dialogue by sharing his journey of transforming OMGI into a diverse media ecosystem during the pandemic. Advertisers turned away from media and magazines, leaving the sole print publication, MEGA Magazine in great challenge. In response, Carrasco developed his own powerful ecosystem, AGC PHC, with magazine brands that competed with and complemented each other. Carrasco also shared that the journey wouldn’t be complete without purpose. “Purpose is the most important thing and a lot of leaders should realize this, especially talking to the new generation,” he said. 

UP AdCore students listening intently

To sustain the market for these brands, Galicia shared the strategy for engaging diverse audiences: customizing content for each platform and market. He explained, “As a multimedia company, we ensure the content we create for each platform is tailored to its specific niche.” He said that content for print and digital must differ to effectively reach their distinct audiences.

Recto then provided an insightful behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous process of magazine creation. “For us, it’s not about catching up with trends but staying ahead of them. Every time we conceptualize, it’s always about how we can do something different.” From ideation to executing the shoot, she added, “It really takes a village,” as projects involve more than a hundred individuals from different teams including editorial, sales, administration, and production.

Bernisca stressed the importance of collaboration, affirming that every idea is essential to creative success. She highlighted how AGC PHC values input from all team members. She said, “Every voice deserves to be heard in a group. In everything we do, collaboration is key.”

The students were surprised with a challenge by the CEO himself to put these insights into practice by creating a short presentation on how to make magazines relevant to Gen Z – with an equally surprising generous cash prize for the best idea. The winning concept of “Revive and Relive” highlighted the timeless value of physical magazines, emphasizing how they can capture moments in a way that digital media cannot.

UP AdCore members receiving free AGC PHC titles including Gen Z crowd-favorite: customizable NYLON Manila MyZine

AGC PHC welcomes interactions such as these to engage the youth, learn from them, and inspire them to also proudly bring the Philippines to the world.