Meet The Speakers of the Second Day of Vogue Threads Manila

Learn what’s next in beauty, business, and social media on the second day of Vogue Threads Manila.

On the first day of Vogue Threads Manila, culture and fashion are at the forefront of the Vogue Talks discussions. For the second day, Vogue Talks continues with conversations on social media, business, and beauty featuring panelists such as Heart, Bretman Rock, Dr. Vicki Belo, Mark Ocampo, and more.

See the full list of topics and speakers for Day 2 of Vogue Threads Manila.

Heritage & Innovation: Learnings from Legacy Brands

Coming from a family that has been integral to Filipino retail and over over 30 years of experience himself, Donnie Tantoco will share his insights, thoughts, and learnings in the industry. Starting his career in 1988 by reviving Bondview Resources in Hong Kong, he later worked with brands such as Pepsi Cola and General Mills before establishing Royal Duty Free Shops in Subic, Philippines. In 2023, he launched Joel’s Place, an innovative “grocerant” concept. He is also involved in various industry organizations and has received numerous accolades, including the Ernst & Young Innovation Entrepreneur of the Year.

Interviewing Tantoco will be veteran Filipino broadcast journalist Ces Drilon. From 1989 to 2020, she presented news public affairs programs of ABS-CBN Corporation. At present, she is the host of the nationally syndicated afternoon public service program Basta Promdi, Lodi of RMN-DZXL.

Next in Beauty

When it comes to what’s next in beauty, Vogue Philippines beauty editor Joyce Oreña will be leading the discussion as a moderator. First in the lineup is Dr. Vicki Belo, the founder, president, and medical director of Belo Medical Group, and CEO of Belo Group of Companies. Joining Dr. Belo are VML Intelligence global director Emma Chiu, Happy Skin co-founder Rissa Mananquil Trillo, hairdresser Ken Paves, and L’Oreal Philippines country managing director Yassine Bakari.

“I’m excited to dive into the future of beauty and how it’s evolving right here in the Philippines. I’ll be sharing insights on how the beauty conversation is changing,” Rissa says. “In a world where online beauty opinions are increasingly influenced by financial interests, what I’m most eager to discuss is how today’s consumers are, now more than ever, seeking honest, credible, and trustworthy authorities.”

Empowering Local Entrepreneurs

In a discussion about business, Paolo Abrera will serve as a moderator. Abrera is a recognized broadcaster, event host, and media personality in the Philippines, celebrated for his work on television and digital platforms. Beginning his career in the ‘90s with a commercial, he later hosted a variety of lifestyle and environmental programs, including Green Living on the ABS-CBN News Channel and New Day on CNN Philippines. Currently, he hosts the enviro-lifestyle show One Small Act with Newswatch Plus Philippines.

“I’m hopeful this opens up meaningful dialogues that inspire and challenge us to think about our roles in sustainability and conservation,” says Mark Ocampo, who will be in the panel. Ocampo is the co-founder and managing director of Auro Chocolate, an award-winning Filipino brand that has expanded to 50 countries and won over 75 international accolades. After studying chocolate production in Germany, he launched Auro in 2017, which aimed to champion Filipino cacao and support local farmers.

Alongside Ocampo will be Leanne Robers, an influential entrepreneur and co-founder of She Loves Tech, the world’s largest startup accelerator for women-led and women-impact tech companies, active in 76 countries. A mentor for global tech programs, Leanne was also honored as an Obama Leader and awarded the Tech Playmaker and Champion of Change awards.

Role of Social Media in Business

As a content creator, entrepreneur, beauty queen, author, and podcast host, Ayn Bernos will moderate the discussion on the role of social media in business. Joining the conversation will be social media personality Niana Guerrero, Revolve and Forward’s chief brand officer Raissa Gerona, media personality Bretman Rock, and Filipina actress and artist Heart Evangelista.

Bretman shares his excitement in joining the panel discussion. “I think many people don’t always see me as a businessperson, so I imagine they’ll be surprised by the business knowledge I do have,” he says. “Living in Hawai’i, I’ve been fortunate enough to collaborate with some of my favorite brands through virtual activations, especially when I’m unable to attend shows in person.”

To join Vogue Threads Manila, purchase your tickets here.