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Newly Promoted Employees at AGC PHC Share their Secrets to Success

Now embarking on new roles, hear from our colleagues as they share their stories of growth, their goals and aspirations for the future, and their advice for anyone starting out.

It was a week of celebration as AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) announced several work promotions across the company and its publishing powerhouse, One MEGA Group (OMG). Beyond the prestige subsidiaries of AGC PHC, what drives the success of the media conglomerate housing the biggest titles in the country is its people. What goes on behind the scenes is a multitude of talents dedicated to upholding the standard of excellence the company has established.

In recognition of their career milestones, we sat down with each one of our colleagues as they shared their stories of growth together with the valuable learnings they have picked up along the way. As they enter the new chapters of their careers, they look back on their previous achievements and humble beginnings.

Kristoff Sison, OMG

After being a recipient of the prestigious TOEY awards, it comes as no surprise that Kristoff Sison, one of the pillars of OMG’s Creative Services, is taking on a new role as Creative Services Manager. From his first week entering the media giant, Sison felt that he had something to prove. Despite his excitement, he couldn’t deny that the pressure and nervousness would sometimes prove to be overwhelming. As time progressed and Sison got the chance to work across multiple brands, the pressure became easier to navigate for the creative genius. With a great team behind him who share the same passion and creativity, he has discovered the kind of leader he wants to be, a leader who encourages assertiveness and learning.

When asked about his work mantra, Sison replied, “Kapag hindi ubos, kapos.” For him, if you still have something left to give, then the work is not yet finished. Carrying over the same drive and determination to his new role, he aims to be a leader who guides through knowledge and welcomes diverse perspectives. Sison advises anyone starting their career journey to “desire, perspire, and inspire.” He shared that it is important to focus on what you want to achieve and persevere to accomplish this no matter what. Most importantly, “Don’t forget to share what you have gathered and spark new light in people you meet in this journey,” Sison adds.

Chloe Franco, OMG

When describing her journey with the company so far, Chloe Franco is enjoying the thrills that come with the “roller coaster ride of a job,” as she calls it. Entering OMG as a fresh graduate and not wanting to be in sales, she was fueled by her desire to learn new things to persevere, and always be on top of her game. Now entering a new chapter as Key Accounts Manager, Franco aims not just for career growth, but for mentorship of new account managers who seek to follow in her footsteps. In everything she does, Franco is inspired by her family, friends, colleagues, and her faith in God who keeps her going. Now taking on a bigger role, she advises anyone starting out their careers to not give up and keep one’s faith. “You’ll get where you should be in time, just trust and enjoy the journey. Always do your best even in the simplest things,” Franco adds.

Migi Barbeyto, AGC PHC

Before starting his journey with AGC PHC as part of the human resources team of its marketing house, DigistarPH, Migi Barbeyto was following a different path switching from one job to another. Soon, the opportunity came knocking at his door when he was given a shot to enter the industry he had always strived for. Having worked for three companies under the media conglomerate helped build his confidence and strengthened his ability to present himself to others. Now an Organizational Development and HR Tech Supervisor, Barbeyto aims to, “Grab every opportunity there is to learn in order to help the people around me the best way I can.”

Throughout his tenure with the company, Barbeyto considers Chairman and CEO, Archie G. Carrasco (AGC), as his inspiration and regards him as the true definition of a self-made individual. According to him, “Like most of us, AGC started as a normal employee, but due to his brilliance, he was able to work his way up the ranks at such a young age and steer the company to much greater heights.” Now speaking to those about to start their journey in the workforce, Barbeyto advises them to, “Take everything one step at a time.” For him, one should not be afraid to make mistakes and take risks because it is through these that one learns.

Jasmine Co Leng, OMG

As a fresh graduate with a background in her family business, Jasmine entered OMG with determination and willingness to learn. Staying true to her work mantra of, “Either I will find a way, or I will make one,” she soon gained confidence and emerged as a skilled and motivated professional. Now as a Key Accounts Manager, she aims to further strengthen OMG’s linkages with its valued clients and partners. Looking back at her journey so far, she advises anyone wishing to start their career in the media advertising industry to “religiously hone their craft, seek constant feedback, and always believe in yourself.”

Ivan Panganiban, OMG

Ivan Panganiban’s journey in OMG had its fair share of ups and downs. When she first entered the media powerhouse, she found difficulty in organizing the list of brands she handled and the way she presented to prospective clients. Not letting any obstacle get in her way and taking inspiration from her immediate head, Moi Busto, she soon honed her skills, learning how to integrate selling into everything she does from emails to presentations.

Now ready to take on any challenge, Panganiban believes that “tomorrow is another day.” She takes each day in OMG as an opportunity to learn. Despite the demand as a Key Accounts Manager, Panganiban is determined to help and do her part to achieve her department’s sales targets. Knowing the difficulties that come with starting one’s career journey, she advises young professionals to trust the process. “These are the challenges, obstacles, and experiences that will help you achieve your dreams,” she concludes.

The successes of these employees are a testament to the growth that the company can provide, regardless of age, tenure, and role. As they rose through challenges and unleashed their full potential, these individuals are now soaring to new beginnings with AGC PHC.

Head on over to https://agcpowerholdingscorp.com/category/news/ for more news and stories about AGC PHC.

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MEGA Names Ryuji Shiomitsu As Its New Fashion Director

There’s a new Fashion Director in town who’s ready to showcase the breadth of Filipino talent and culture on a global scale. Meet Ryuji Shiomitsu – MEGA’s new Fashion Director appointed on March 2, 2022. Along with his wealth of experience and creative approach, Ryuji is thrilled to see what he can achieve with his new role.

Life Before MEGA

Ryuji’s fashion journey began right after college, when he studied at the Fashion Institute of the Philippines. While in school, he met London-based Filipino Designer John Herrera, Fashion Photography Instructor Rxandy Capinpin, Celebrity Hairstylist Jay Wee, and Professional Makeup Artist Hanna Pechon, and started styling for their shoots.

They immediately took notice of his talent and was commissioned by John Herrera to shoot his collection for Philippine Fashion Week 2009. This marked the beginning of his career – within just a few months, he was scouted to work as a contributor for MEGA by current President, Suki Salvador.

Decade of Career Milestones

Ever since then, Ryuji’s career has always been intertwined with the One MEGA Group, having his works published in the magazine almost every month. One could describe Ryuji’s time with MEGA as a decade filled with career milestones.

2010 was Ryuji’s year of firsts with MEGA. He worked on his first fashion pages for the magazine, guided by late Fashion Editor Teej Nepomuceno’s pragmatic approach to luxury. He then created his first issue for MEGA released in May, followed by an advertorial and his first fashion editorial.

He continued to excel in the years to come. In 2011, Ryuji styled his favorite MEGA editorial in collaboration with Cirque du Soleil and was included in Forward March’s 100 Fashion Forward Filipinos. He then styled his first cover for MEGA Man featuring Sam Milby in 2013 and created his first double cover in 2015 with then Fashion Editor Eldzs Mejia for The Next Big Thing: GMA vs ABS Network War. And in 2017, he styled a landmark editorial for the 25th anniversary of MEGA which he describes as one of his favorite shoots to date.

A New Chapter

After being named as MEGA’s new Fashion Director, Ryuji sits down in an interview to discuss his vision and plans for the magazine.

1. How does it feel being appointed as the new Fashion Director of MEGA magazine?

Being appointed as the new Fashion Director of MEGA feels like a full circle moment. Back in 2010, when I just started, Suki Salvador scouted me to work on the magazine. Ever since then, my work has been cultivated, supported, and developed by the magazine. In any way shape or form, my work has been present in [MEGA] since then.

So when Peewee Reyes-Isidro broached the idea, I instantly said yes. I found it as the best natural progression of my career to finally work in MEGA. It will open up more avenues for me to pursue higher standards of fashion, develop key visuals and aesthetics that can propel Philippine design forward at a global scale, be able to create and start a conversation between creatives, bridge that gap caused by our archipelagic setting, and contribute to the steadily growing Philippine fashion history.

2. What are some of your goals and aspirations as the new Fashion Director?

My work has always been rooted in my belief that, “Fashion is a conversation not a monologue,” and I see that as the driving force in setting my realistic goals and aspirations for the future of MEGA.

To facilitate meaningful conversations within the fashion industry, bringing together designers, models, and creatives to work on the magazine, and put a stamp on the conversation of what Philippine fashion truly is. Knowing who we are as an industry makes it easier for us to showcase it to the world. Our creatives, design, and work ethics are unmatched. Philippine fashion is truly global.

3. What do you think you can bring to the table?

I can bring a sense of balance of romanticism and realism in the magazine. I always see my work as a balance of both inspirational and aspirational.

Fashion is fashion, but without anyone relating to it at a visual and emotional level, it wouldn’t work. I would want my readers to say that, “I could wear that too,” “I could try that hair and makeup,” and, “That would look good on me.” To be able to do that would be amazing.

4. What look and direction do you envision the magazine having?

Fashion is all about scale – ascending intervals. I wish to bring the fashion content of MEGA a notch higher: touch base on aspirational fashion, reintroduce international fashion to the taste of the Filipino, refocus the dialogue on what is Philippine fashion, and decentralize Manila centric fashion.

More importantly, I want to help discover new talent in fashion design, fashion styling, art direction, creative direction, makeup artistry, hair artistry, and models all over the country. Talk about the inevitability of sustainability and produce meaningful fashion stories and covers that resonate the times.

5. With fashion constantly evolving and changing, what type of fashion do you plan to create for MEGA?

Fashion that is simple yet impactful. Fashion that is pragmatic yet meaningful. To start, I just want to establish that fashion is fun. With the pandemic happening and its prolonged impact on our industry, bringing fun into everything we do can send ripples into the industry. To facilitate collaborative efforts to make our designers, stylists, and directors once again start making art that will positively impact not just our industry, but bring growth to a whole lot more.

The Philippine local fashion industry is very unique. It merges a very strong sense of the past while exponentially growing aesthetically in the present while developing a great sense of the future. For me, the most exciting thing about it is that we are never short on talent. Our resiliency and resourcefulness are simply unmatched.

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

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Stories of Career Growth

Witness the career growth, journeys, and career advice of some of the role model employees from AGC Power Holdings Corp. and One MEGA Group, Inc.

What is it like to work among the top media companies in the Philippines? And what does it take to succeed in such a fast-paced career?

It is no secret that hard work is a vital component of career growth. But for the role model employees at AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC) and One MEGA Group, Inc. (OMG), what you truly need is a burning desire to grow, shine, and go the extra mile. Easier said than done, these living testaments proved that their age, tenure, or background cannot stop them from reaching their full potential. Let’s look at the stories behind some gems in the company who did just that.

Humble beginnings – Arriane Sanchez

Arriane Sanchez

She entered One MEGA Group ten years ago as an intern with big aspirations. Today, Arriane serves as the Head of Consumer Marketing and Circulations across all media companies under AGC PHC.

Arriane’s journey was not easy. She took on many different roles – from events assistant to supervisor, and moved to various departments as manager from advertising support, circulations, and marketing services. One could call her the perfect example of real growth.

“If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity, but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!” She lived by her favorite quote from Richard Branson and strived to be the best in whatever task was given to her. Starting from a humble beginning did not stop her from dreaming big. Instead, it served as an inspiration to go even further.

Holding her position today, Arriane made history by being the first youngest member of the management team in the company.

Never too late – Carlo Tumaliuan

As the quote from Nelson Mandela goes, “There is no passion to be found playing small, in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” After working in a call center, Carlo made a bold move to change his career path and follow his real passion – Information Technology. Even if it involves a pay cut, what truly matters to Carlo is a job that makes him happy. Luckily, he found himself in a Web Developer post under OMG.

As months have gone by, the company started to expand and diversify itself to other industries. Soon enough, it needed someone to forefront the IT Department. Carlo bravely stepped up and took on this challenge showing everyone what he is truly capable of.

At just the age of 25, Carlo is now the Web Development and IT Manager at AGC PHC, setting the example that it’s never too late to pursue the career that you are truly passionate about.

Unleash your full potential – Emina Sotto

Within just a year in marketing, she was promoted as the Brand Associate behind all three of MEGA’s prestige variants: MEGA Style, MEGA+, and MEGA Active. Emina’s secret? Her leadership skills.

Emina started her career as a Copywriter and was moved to become a Social Media Associate where the management immediately took notice of her leadership potential. In less than a month, she was promoted as team leader.

For her, it wouldn’t be possible without OMG’s guidance, suport, and confidence to help her grow in her chosen field. She’s fortunate enough to be part of a company that molds its people to unleash their full potential whether you’ve been serving for a decade or just new to the scene like Emina.

Ahead of the game – Pam Rodriguez

It was just three months ago when Pam began her OMG journey as a Content Supervisor.Today at just 24 years old, she now functions as the manager of Marketing Communications. According to Pam, “It hasn’t always been rainbows and butterflies.”

Of course, the road to success is difficult. But Pam looks at those hardships fondly, realizing that those moments were exactly what she needed to gain valuable experiences in navigating her career.

For Pam, OMG’s environment really encourages self-development to its employees by helping them acquire new skills. It has helped her achieve greatness in her work and led her to the pursuit of being ahead of the game. Because of Pam’s dedication to go the extra mile, she now holds a managerial position at such a young age.

Never stop learning – Janin Tabora

Some are naturally born with it, some have to learn the ropes along the way. This was Janin’s story as she started in 2018 as a Billing and Contracts Associate at OMG. She admitted that it was a challenge for her at first and needed to learn with a little supervision.

But this sparked more passion within Janin. She devoted her time understanding the ins and outs of the department. Janin never stopped learning.

Now, she’s the new Finance Supervisor – the backbone of the company’s operations, ensuring its proper financial, accounting, and legal processes. Janin reached this success because she didn’t live in a shell of static, safe mediocrity. She believes that growth comes at the expense of comfort. Janin’s road to excellence may have taken an organic and long-term process, but she successfully reached the top with life-long learnings she can take to grow even more.

These career stories are diverse in so many ways. Some succeeded young, some changed their paths, and others took the time to grow. However, they had one thing in common – they were part of a company that guided them to their victories today.

You just have to believe in two things: your company and yourself. Together, you will grow. And one day, you’ll find yourself sharing your own piece of advice to the success that you’ll soon reach.

Head on over to https://agcpowerholdingscorp.com/category/news/ for more news and stories about AGC PHC.