Rolling Stone is set to embark on an exciting new chapter as it expands to the Philippines.
Rolling Stone, the iconic music, culture, and social issues magazine, is ready to reinvent the rules and redefine the Philippine media scene with its bold, cutting-edge journalism. Under the umbrella of AGC Power Holdings Corp.’s (AGC PHC) Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI), Rolling Stone Philippines is gearing up for its debut with an editorial team led by seasoned publishing veteran, Jonty Cruz.
Known for his editorial work with some of the Philippines’ most respected publications, Cruz steps into the role of Chief of Editorial Content with a wealth of expertise and a forward-thinking vision. Cruz was part of the founding editorial team of Esquire Philippines, before being the editor of Young Star and Rogue Magazine. When left to his own devices, he created two pandemic-born passion projects: Out of Print and Biter which built a strong following from the greater creative diaspora looking for something new.
Most recently working at FleishmanHillard Manila as its Executive Creative Director, Cruz’s appointment comes at a time when the Philippine publishing industry is seeing a resurgence of bold, creative projects, and he’s eager to tap into this new energy. “Rolling Stone Philippines is further proof that we’re in the midst of a new era of Philippine publishing. Given the current state of truth and the rise of misinformation, we have every intent to reframe conversations to be more critical, discerning, and engaging. I can’t wait to help usher this brand with what I believe is an editorial dream team,” he shares.
When it comes to his vision for the brand, Cruz states, “The word that comes to mind is attitude. Attitude will shape the direction of Rolling Stone Philippines.” This aligns perfectly with the counterculture spirit of Rolling Stone — unapologetically bold and always ahead of the curve.
“We are looking forward to steering the publishing industry further with Cruz. His editorial expertise and passion make him the perfect lead to establish Rolling Stone in the Philippines,” says Archie G. Carrasco, CEO of AGC PHC.
As Rolling Stone Philippines prepares to hit newsstands, it’s clear that under Cruz’s leadership, the magazine is set to strengthen its legacy. “It’s less about differentiating and more about defining Rolling Stone for the Philippines. We’re not just here to honor what came before. We’re here to create new narratives,” he says.
Cruz aims to make the local edition a standout in its own right, while also staying true to Rolling Stone’s global identity. For Cruz, it’s about emphasizing Rolling Stone’s place in the culture and rising above the noise. His goal for the publication is simple yet ambitious: “To be the best magazine in the Philippines.”