VMAN Southeast Asia celebrated its first anniversary through the VMAN Ball, an event recognizing the region’s most influential figures across entertainment, fashion, music, the arts, business, cuisine, and philanthropy. Held at The Peninsula Manila, the celebration brought together leaders whose contributions continue to shape Southeast Asia’s creative and cultural landscape on a global scale.
The night opened with remarks from Archie G. Carrasco, Chairman and CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp., who reflected on the strategic inception of VMAN Southeast Asia. He outlined how the concept originated from an unexpected dialogue with VMAN U.S. Founder and Creative Director Stephen Gan, which evolved into a strategic plan to establish a Southeast Asian edition that champions regional talent and amplifies their narratives globally.
This strategic vision was reinforced by Janine Recto, Vice President for Asia Media Brands of One MEGA Group Inc., who emphasized the significance of building a purpose-driven regional media brand: “Launching a regional media brand is no small task—different markets, different cultures, and one shared ambition. VMAN Southeast Asia was built to introduce the Southeast Asian man to the world, showcasing the region’s creativity, identity, and dynamic cultural influence on a global stage.”
VMAN SEA’s Men of the Moment
VMAN Southeast Asia recognized 10 ‘Men of the Moment’ from across the region—leaders whose creativity, innovation, and influence are advancing Southeast Asia’s cultural and creative industries:
Indonesian actor Jefri Nichol – Entertainment
Filipino actor Jericho Rosales – Entertainment
Thai actor Tayme Thapthimthong – Entertainment
Indonesian actor and style figure Omar Daniel – Fashion
Filipino artist Kyle Echarri – Fashion
Violinist and composer Josh Kua – Music
Vietnamese artist Thiên Minh – Arts
Chef Josh Boutwood – Cuisine
Entrepreneur Christophe Bariou – Philanthropy
Executive Jacob Paolo Ang – Business
Patrick Ty, Chief of Editorial Content, highlighted the honorees’ strategic role in defining Southeast Asia’s cultural identity: “We celebrate the artists and visionaries who carry our stories and shape the future of Southeast Asian creativity. Our heritage and traditions remain the bedrock of who we are, yet our region stands out for how seamlessly these roots coexist with the contemporary.”
The VMAN Ball served not only as a celebration of the publication’s first year but as a statement of its long-term vision: to honor individuals shaping Southeast Asian culture and to provide a platform where regional talent can gain recognition with global clarity.
Photo courtesy of Excel Panlaque and Kim Santos of KLIQ Inc.