Elevating the Filipino Men

First and foremost, I am very grateful for the opportunity given to me by the One Mega Group, headed by our CEO and president, and friend, Archie Carrasco and our vice president of content, and head honcho of the Megaverse, Ms. Peewee Isidro. The overwhelming support of friends and colleagues is humbling. Little did I imagine that after my almost-four-year stint at Lifestyle Asia, I would still be game to continue and take the lead on not one but two titles—one revolves around the world of men’s lifestyle and the other around the active pack. I am more than ever determined to take both titles to even higher heights. Certainly, it wouldn’t be easy, but with the right mindset and support, I believe that it can be done. The men’s industry has a lot of opportunities for growth. It is not only still underserved but it is also underdeveloped. And we need to do something about that.

Exciting times indeed. We see a huge latitude to hone and grow that market through MEGA Man. Knowing this, we would like to usher in the modern Filipino MEGA Man.

But what does that actually mean? The answer to that is still evolving, but I feel that the men in our country is at the bottom end of the spectrum in this regard.

There is nothing cultural about it. Rather, there is a lack of exposure and focus. I would like to see this change. And I would like to help develop and elevate the Filipino men through MEGA Man. It will be a mindset and lifestyle shift—a task that is not easy and will take time to accomplish. It should start from informing, educating and recommending new ways, new ideas, new trends, new behaviors that men should imbibe.

My vision for the men’s industry, especially in fashion, is to help it evolve. Men shouldn’t stop improving or making themselves better. It’s a continuous process, and it’s a journey we all need to go through.

I want to break stereotypes of men in terms of fashion, grooming, and social norms ingrained in our culture. I want to break those barriers and stereotypes that are restrictive. We have to empower men and remind them that there is nothing wrong with wanting to become better versions of themselves.

For the relaunch and rebranding of MEGA Man this November—which, coincidentally, is the tenth year anniversary of MEGA Man—we are serving you five young men at the peak of their varying careers. They are multi-faceted; they are juggling a busy life; and they are not just improving themselves but they are also trying to help people and make a difference in their industries.

Sam Versoza, from his humble beginnings, was able to establish a thriving business and is now a congressman. Matthew Manotoc fell into his family’s career path, and is now a-second term governor of the province of Ilocos Norte. Much has changed in Ilocos as he moves forward to achieving his vision for the region. Stanley Ng is the youngest president of Philippine Airlines. From being a captain, he is now taking the flag carrier to greater heights. Dingdong Dantes is a well-respected actor and one of showbiz’s highest earning artists of his generation. Through these years, he has continuously evolved and developed his craft. Last, but not the least, is Andres Barrioquinto. The highly acclaimed artist is known for his dark and surrealist style—and he is one of my favorite artists. Having attracted collectors from around the world, he is truly making us proud to be Filipinos. I am awed by his creativity and work.

These five individuals represent the new MEGA Man. They are elevating Filipino men in more ways than one. They represent change and evolution. These are men that Filipinos should be inspired by, and through their stories, they can empower Filipino men to become better.

Before I end this note, I am excited to announce that you will also see a significant change in our covers. They will be more dynamic, more fun, more energetic, fresher, cooler, and more fashion-forward. We hope you will love our covers, and we hope to inspire you with our stories.