A New Era of Luxury: The Robb Report Philippines Launch
Robb Report Philippines has arrived.
The launch of its Premiere Issue was celebrated with an unforgettable weekend at Amanpulo from February 7 to 9—a three-day affair that brought together a distinguished group of guests for a series of exceptional moments, from private cruises and island activities to the eagerly awaited launch party, all thoughtfully designed by Robb Report Philippines and presented with exclusive experience partner, Security Bank.
Watch the highlights:
Friday: Exclusive Flights, a Warm Welcome, and Curated Dining Experiences
On Friday morning, guests were whisked away on exclusive chartered flights to the island, starting their journey with a hearty breakfast by Deli by Chele at the Amanpulo Lounge in the A. Soriano Hangar. Before takeoff, they were treated to a selection of New York-style pastrami sandwiches, pulled pastrami cheesemelt sandwiches, and smoked salmon sandwiches made to order, as well as exquisite viennoiserie pastries and freshly squeezed juices.
As the plane touched down on the island, guests were treated to cool, refreshing coconut juice, the perfect sip to unwind after the scenic, just-over-an-hour flight.
Guests were then escorted to their beautifully appointed beachfront casitas, each offering an intimate escape with panoramic views of the shore.
Carefully curated was a welcome gift from the Robb Report Philippines team. Handmade, beautifully crafted, woven straw bags–a signature of globally-renowned accessories brand Aranaz–awaited its guests.
L’Occitane’s coveted Almond Shower Oil and Shiseido’s luxurious skincare collection for both men and women—including the award-winning Ultimune line, infused with powerful, patented antioxidants—ensured guests were pampered and protected while soaking up the sun.
That evening, welcome cocktails took place at The Pier, where guests gathered as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Fine libations were created with wines by Moet Hennessy and liquor by Pernod. Over lively conversation, guests sipped on tipple like Royal Salute 21 on the rocks and Martell XO enjoyed neat. A favorite was the Pamalican Royale, a local take on the Kir Royale and made with Mumm Cordon Rouge.
Served with the free-flowing drinks was an array of delectable hors d’oeuvres like foie gras choux and wild mushroom tartlets.
Though the day offered ample opportunity for guests to mingle at their own pace, it was in the intimate setting of The Pier that true connections were made.
Out-of-town guests, like Tak Man Hong, founder and chief executive of Nexus Media and publisher of Robb Report Hong Kong, were warmly welcomed by the Robb Report Philippines team.
As twilight descended, the soft glow of the sunset enveloped the scene, creating an unmistakable sense of place that made guests feel as though they had stepped into something truly special. The festivities had only just begun.
After sunset, guests were driven to different dining experiences across stunning locations around the island. A menu prepared by Amanpulo chef Alan Kwan began with a flavorful crab and coconut soup, followed by an arugula salad dressed with various local citrus like kiat kiat, and slices of avocado. The main course was an expertly executed surf-and-turf, with grilled prawns, grilled rib-eye cap, and roasted purple sweet potatoes brushed with Choron butter. Dessert was a velvety biscoff cookie and chocolate tart topped with torched marshmallow fluff.
Some couples had a romantic four-course dinner date on the beach, their tables softly illuminated by lanterns with wicker shades, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere.
A breathtaking dinner setting was created for eight on the island’s airstrip, transforming the space into a dramatic dining experience.
Another group gathered at Gary’s Nest, a scenic hilltop retreat nestled within a lush garden, where vibrant discussions flowed.
Intimate, elegant, and carefully planned by Robb Report Philippines, these dinners were a wonderful way to cap off the first day of celebrations.
Saturday: Bespoke Adventures, Restful Retreats, and the Dawn of a New Era
The next day was just as leisurely, yet still as carefully planned–guests pre-selected various activities to engage in around the island. Some guests chose active water sports like Hobie cat sailing, snorkeling, and kite surfing.
Other guests chose activities centered on touring the island, discovering Amanpulo’s wildlife and scenery through hikes, private and serene sunrise cruises, and awe-inspiring turtle spotting.
Leisurely pursuits were enjoyed as well. Long lunches filled with engaging conversation continued through to the afternoon, while some basked under the sun, beachside. Others indulged in a peaceful afternoon of relaxation at the spa.
As evening fell, the much-anticipated official launch celebrations kicked off with a lively cocktail hour at the island’s lush Picnic Grove.
Modern Media Group Inc. COO Anne Bernisca began the celebrations officially, sharing the vision behind the publication. “Our CEO, Archie [Carrasco], has always believed that we deserve a media brand that truly represents luxury. Our team at Modern Media Group has finally turned this vision into a reality. We couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to celebrate this milestone with.”
A speech from Executive Vice President and Head of Retail Banking Rahul Rasal of Security Bank followed. “I would like to extend, very heartily, my congratulations to Robb Report Philippines for yet another successful event,” Rasal said.
“I think you are making this a habit,” he added warmly.
Guests were then escorted to a beachside dinner, where a long table was adorned with elegant South African protea flower centerpieces and softly illuminated by candles.
Archie Carrasco, publisher of Robb Report Philippines and CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp., addressed the guests, formally marking the debut of the magazine with a few, but meaningful, words.
“Tonight marks a momentous occasion, not just for us at AGC Power Holdings Corp., but also for the entire landscape of luxury media in the Philippines. We are the 18th international edition of the globally-renowned authority on luxury,” said Carrasco.
“For decades, Robb Report has been the definitive voice in creating the finest experiences, innovations, and craftsmanship the world has to offer,” Carrasco continued. “And now, with its arrival in the Philippines, we take pride in presenting the same exceptional standard of storytelling but with a distinct perspective–one that highlights Filipino excellence, global sophistication, and a commitment to a life well-lived.”
The enduring signature of the Robb Report point-of-view was on the forefront at the launch. Robb Report Philippines’ Chief of Editorial Content Yvette Fernandez noted, “Robb Report Philippines is proud to be a part of a global legacy brand that continues to define the world of luxury.”
Kimberly Rocha-Delgado is the publication’s digital editor, while Carl Cunanan heads the Cars and Watches section. Alicia Colby-Sy is editor of Lifestyle.
The sumptuous seven-course Filipino dinner was meticulously crafted by Toyo Eatery’s Chef Jordy Navarra, Chef JP Cruz, general manager May Navarra, and assistant Clyde Zafra, who flew in from Manila for the occasion. Renowned as a five-time awardee of The Best Restaurant in the Philippines by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Toyo Eatery was the perfect choice to deliver an exceptional dining experience for Robb Report Philippines.
“Beach trips around the Philippines don’t seem complete if there is no ihaw or kamayan involved, so doing a kamayan-style setup felt right for this dinner,” Navarra said, explaining the inspiration behind his menu.
Four exquisite starters began the dinner, which, of course, featured seafood, befitting the coastal setting: a kilaw of tuna; a surprising, delightful clam dish in a layered, melt-in-your-mouth custard dish; and crabmeat, served with gata and palapa, a spicy-sweet condiment whose recipe originates from the Maranao of Lanao del Sur.
For the main courses, he took inspiration from cherished Filipino beach fare, featuring delicately steamed shrimp, crispy pork hock, and grilled pork alongside crunchy dilis, kalkag, fish bones, and pinindang. The dishes were punctuated by thinly sliced green mango and bagoong.
“Cooking at Amanpulo was an amazing experience for us, and the team was really inspired by the setting,” Navarra said. “It was the first time we got to bring our kamayan to the sand, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.”
A selection of fine wines from Terroir Wines was thoughtfully chosen to complement Chef Jordy’s menu. To accompany the final course, a rich and indulgent port was served with Navarra’s exquisite creations: a refreshing cold dessert, Tostadong Bigas at Buko; a decadent Dulce de Leche at Tsokolate truffle; and luscious, buttery silvanas.
At dinner, a breathtaking drone show, unveiling Robb Report Philippines’ tagline, “Luxury Without Compromise,” followed by a stunning fireworks display, illuminated the night sky. The spectacle, arranged by Southlinks Estate, added an unforgettable touch to the evening’s celebrations.
The highlight of the weekend was the unveiling of the magazine’s first cover, a work by National Artist Bencab. The artwork, “Ilustrado,” is from the artist’s Larawan series based on turn-of-the-20th-century colonial photography, a fitting image of the discerning and sophisticated Filipino global citizen.
After dinner, drinks were served at the Beach Club, where guests lounged and enjoyed the evening, staying long into the night.
Sunday: Extraordinary moments, exceptional memories.
The following day, after enjoying a few more island activities and a leisurely breakfast, guests departed for Manila, bidding farewell to the island paradise.
As a parting gesture, guests were presented with a luxurious Dior gift box from Robb Report Philippines, featuring the exquisite Dior La Collection Privée Esprit de Parfum and a La Collection Privée candle.
With its stellar launch, Robb Report Philippines has officially arrived on our shores to curate the best of the Philippines’ and the world’s most exceptional experiences, delivering a seamless blend of global and local perspectives that speak directly to the tastes of its Filipino audience—and luxury without compromise.
Exclusive Experience Partner:
Security Bank
Special thanks to:
Southlinks Estate
Our heartfelt gratitude to:
Amanpulo Resort
Toyo Eatery
Aranaz
Toka Wines
Terroir Wines
Shiseido
L’Occitane
Principal photography by Kim Santos and Excel Panlaque