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. 

The Philippines’ fastest-growing media company further expands its international presence

AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC), the home of international titles Vogue Philippines, Billboard Philippines, and Nylon Manila is welcoming four new global media brands soon. CEO Archie G. Carrasco announced this strategic expansion, highlighting the company’s commitment to elevating the Philippine media landscape.

“I am honored to announce we are welcoming four more international media brands into our ecosystem, strengthening our efforts to elevate the Philippine media,” Carrasco said. “We will be announcing these brands in the next few weeks. I am also extremely excited that one of these brands is going to be our first regional media brand. It makes me proud as a Filipino to see the Philippines leading a media brand that represents Southeast Asia.”

A contract signing ceremony took place at Nobu Manila, City of Dreams in Manila, attended by AGC PHC’s executives. This event marks the beginning of another chapter for the company as it continues to grow its influence in the media industry. 

This expansion is a significant milestone for AGC PHC, highlighting its mission to connect Filipino talents to the global stage. With its dedication to innovation and excellence, AGC PHC is set to raise the bar in the media industry, bringing the world to the Philippines and the Philippines to the world. 

Vogue Philippines’ Art Director Jann Pascua took the stage to share his thoughts on a controversial topic among creatives.

Members of the Vogue Philippines editorial team were recently invited to a forward-thinking discussion surrounding tech innovations in the creative field. As one of Vogue Philippines’ pioneers, Jann Pascua explored a recurring question in the industry: Is artificial intelligence (AI) an anti-innovator?

Pascua posited, “With AI, will everything be automated? Will it replace certain jobs? Will it promote more misinformation? And so on. The answers are all yes. As scary as they may seem, that also just means that we humans must take a huge leap forward and use our moral compass to adapt, pivot, and evolve into grander things that artificial intelligence will not be able to do. And at the end of the day, it is solely up to us to realize our power and opportunity for this advancement do more good than harm for humankind.”

Part experiment and part truth-seeking, Vogue Philippines dabbled in AI to illustrate how it can be used as a tool for enhancing, not replacing human creativity. Its December-January issue in 2022 showcased a futuristic view of fashion by reimagining runway collections of ternos and balintawak in a dream-like “Paraiso” within the metaverse. The project began with original content such as editorial photographs from Shaira Luna, 1,000 collected Filipina faces, and landscape artist Bianca Carague who imagined what an otherworldly Filipino paradise could look like. All of these original elements were molded into a depiction of the Future of Filipino Fashion — a prime example of how humans can teach AI. 

Pascua acknowledges that using only AI for the project would have been simpler, but he emphasizes that AI can only learn from what humans provide. When generating the diversity of Filipino culture through AI, it often defaults to elements too ingrained in a Westernized perspective. Despite AI’s rapid growth, its resource bank is still in its infancy. Developing something inherently Filipino is challenging, as cultural nuances can easily get lost in translation.

“If we were to assess whether or not AI is an anti-innovator, my answer would be no and it shouldn’t be. Just imagine in the context of diversity alone, if we Filipinos collectively stop creating, stop innovating, stop sharing our culture, traditions, and knowledge with the rest of the world, then in about 50 to a hundred years time, the bank of information about the Philippines will simply be a speck of dust among a massive array of information about the world,” Pascua stated.  

The industry should leverage AI to continue preserving and promoting culture. Vogue Philippines ethically stands with this innovation, championing Filipino stories beyond fashion, whether through narratives on culture and heritage, showcasing diversity and inclusivity, or discovering emerging talents in various fields. “As we stay creative, passionately curious, and remain critical thinkers and responsible storytellers, there is no limit to the inspiring stories and innovations we can share beyond our pages,” said Pascua.

The country’s favorite home design magazine returns with modern inspiration for every Filipino home 

In the early 2000s, despite already having Pinterest, Filipino homemakers and DIYers turned to MyHome magazine to find design inspiration. The ideas were beautiful, practical, and fit so well with the eclectic Filipino design sensibility that MyHome quickly became the favorite go-to source when it came to creating beautiful spaces.

MyHome returns to the stands after a long hiatus to do what it did best: INSPIRE. Under the leadership of its Editor-in-Chief, Architect Geewel Fuster, MyHome is set to continue its legacy and usher in a new era of influence.

Homegrown 

At the heart of MyHome’s rebirth is collaboration and celebration of Filipino design. Fuster shares that MyHome is also a platform where Filipino artisans can converse and unite in the objective of showcasing Filipino talent to the world. Contributing to this vision include guest editor Chat Fores, and design contributors Rita Nazareno and Gabby for Object and Materials, Pam Lopez for Lifestyle, and Daniel Lampa for Arts and Trends. 

Homework

In the reconceptualization of MyHome, the team looked into market trends and altered human behaviors stemming from the pandemic. One Mega Group, Inc. COO Ramon Galicia explained that these two factors were of great consideration when they were discussing the content of the magazine.

First, it had to take into account a real estate resurgence with people looking for second homes or alternate spaces. The other consideration was the heightened awareness of space design highlighted by the long stay at home during the lockdown and the realization that outside people were now being invited inside their homes via conference calls. Galicia adds that people are increasingly focused on cultivating the aesthetic of their home interiors not only for display, but also for the sake of their overall well-being. 

To engage this younger, more design-conscious market, the new MyHome carries expert tips, inspiration, and insights from key figures from the Philippine design industry. It also showcases new brands and new technologies from techniques and materials that the team feels the Filipino aesthetic is now ready for. 

Fuster further explains that the new MyHome will center on the concept of “Modern Filipino Living:” Modern, to showcase the evolving trends in home design; Filipino, to highlight Filipino craftsmanship to a global audience; and Living, to open doors to one beautiful space at a time.

Home is Where the Heart Is

This vision of Modern Filipino living is showcased In its maiden issue through the feature on the home of fashion celebrity Heart Evangelista. “Heart’s home is an old structure which was recently revamped with new layers of vision and design story that is similar to the renaissance of MyHome,” Architect Fuster explains.  

Homecoming

The return of MyHome ushers in another facet of home design within One Mega Group, Inc. It differentiates from Bluprint by focusing more on the importance of meaningful and mindful living. Fuster emphasizes this philosophy is highlighted in the magazine’s dedication to promoting a holistic approach to home life. 

The MyHome team will continue to offer content that seamlessly merges inspiring stories with interior design. MyHome comes back in a bigger print size and also a bigger purpose to fill. 

Head on over to https://bluprint-onemega.com/artistry-at-home-heart-evangelistas-collaborative-home-makeover-2/ to read the full maiden cover story.

The NYLON Manila team introduces their take on print: combining the visual storytelling of a magazine with the customizable aspects of a personal planner.

NYLON, the go-to source for the young, stylish, and culture-obsessed, made a significant decision in 2024: to return to print after eight years of living purely online. True to form, the NYLON Manila team took this directive and gave it their own spin: an innovative approach that blends the elements of a magazine, such as cover stars and editorial narratives, with fun, customizable pages and special sheets, offered initially, in three content packs. The three packs (starter, confidence, and style) are designed around the theme of identity and push the idea of “just be” – something very close to every Gen Z’s heart.

MyRules: Beyond the Magazine

Initially, the team’s plan was to do the “usual:” a 40-page magazine with the requisite cover star and editorial features. That is until someone suggested making it customizable. Editor-in-Chief Maggie Batacan narrates: “With MyZine, we really wanted to deliver a content experience that gives the reader a sense of control over what they’re consuming, similar to ‘choose your own adventure’ type of media.”

The functionality of MyZine knows no bounds. It starts with the binder. Available in five vibrant colorways, it can be further personalized through painting, drawing, or adding stickers with the only limit being the imagination. Content packs include articles, listicles, features, essays, exclusive photos, and interactive worksheets like budget trackers, mood trackers, and checklists. It can be used as a planner, a journal, or with the coming packs that can be mixed and matched, even hold photocard or sticker collections.

MyStyle: The Creative Process

Given NYLON Manila’s digital-first approach, creating a print product proved challenging. Part trial and error, and part mentoring program, the young team of NYLON Manila was all in for the challenge. “Creating MyZine was a huge learning curve for us to overcome, but nonetheless, it was very fun to have the creative freedom and bring the vision to life,” says Brand Associate Bianca Lao. 

Guided by their objective of revolutionizing the readers’ experience by giving them control over the content they consume, Managing Editor Rafael Bautista adds this about the  team’s creative process: “We iterated a lot on how MyZine looks and operates today. From prototypes to scrapped designs, we shifted between ideas before we settled on what the MyZine should be.”

Even the choice of SB19’s Justin as the cover star for MyZine’s debut was in line with NYLON Manila’s ethos of self-discovery and personal growth. Fashion and Creative Director Andre Chang adds, “The maiden cover encompasses the limitless potential of Justin, MyZine, and even the readers. It can represent: ‘Just Be Free,’ ‘Just Be Original,’ ‘Just Be Creative,’ or ‘Just Be Whoever You Want to Be’.”

MyZine: The Continued Evolution

Zines have a rich history, originating as self-published vessels of creativity that capture one’s own thoughts, experiences, and observations. They have always been a platform for personal expression and unique storytelling. Today, a Zine is not just that but already a kind of culture among its readers, with each iteration adapting to its own language.

Amidst the saturation of social media, the NYLON Manila team offers Gen Z an offline social platform in MyZine – where readers become part of the journey, shaping a narrative that is uniquely their own.

Head on over to https://nylonmanila.com/the-present-is-you-justin-and-self-love-in-the-social-media-era/ for the full cover story of Nylon Manila’s maiden MyZine issue.

The company celebrated individuals, departments, and media brands who set leadership standards through example, excellence, and beyond. 

AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) took its annual recognition of excellence to new heights with the introduction of the LEAD Awards — Leadership Excellence Achievement Distinction — on May 13 at Novotel Manila, Araneta City. The event recognized individuals, departments, and media brands who demonstrated exceptional leadership and influence beyond their posts.

In his opening speech, Chairman and CEO of AGC PHC highlighted the transition from the Top Outstanding Employees of the Year (TOEY) awards to the more inclusive and comprehensive LEAD Awards. He stated, “As our company continues to grow and evolve, we recognize the need for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to acknowledging excellence. LEAD moves beyond a fixed number of recipients and does not rely solely on quantitative metrics. Instead, it evaluates the wider impact nominees have on their teams, departments, and the entire company.” 

Service Awardees

The event began by honoring employees for their long-term dedication to the company. Service Awardees included Pauline Mata-Marquez, Carlo Tumaliuan, Jasmine Co Leng, and Kristoff Sison for their 5 years of service, and Maileen Capilitan for her remarkable 15 years of tenure.

LEAD Awardees

The highlight of the night was the recognition of 7 LEAD Awardees who demonstrated leadership qualities such as vision, collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and empowerment. The distinguished LEAD Awardees were:

Top Department and Media Brands of the Year 

The event also recognized teams dedicated to outstanding success. The Top Department of the Year Award (TODY) was given to the Events Team, who distinguished themselves through consistent performance, managing multiple events for all media brands across AGC PHC, and playing a critical role in the company’s financial and brand-building efforts.

Three media brands were also awarded for their relentless efforts. For third place, Billboard Philippines earns the spot for achieving a milestone this year with the highest circulation sales for a single issue, selling 40,000 copies in less than 48 hours. MEGA Magazine secures 2nd place for excelling in both sales and digital engagement, becoming One MEGA Group’s top sales contributor and a leader in digital performance. And for first place, Vogue Philippines takes the spotlight for setting trends and defining elegance, attracting the most advertisers, and becoming the market leader among all magazines in the country. 

After inspiring speeches and collective applause, the LEAD Awards closed the afternoon by marking a significant milestone for AGC PHC, showcasing the company’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating a new standard of excellence — leadership. By honoring individuals and teams who embody this, AGC PHC continues to inspire its workforce for their unwavering achievement within its ecosystem and their impact on the media industry as a whole.

AGC PHC would like to thank its venue partner Novotel Manila and flower supplier Fluff’s Flowers. 

Read more AGC PHC news and updates at https://agcpowerholdingscorp.com/.