Main Models Phl: Decade of fashion, flair and forward momentum

Main Models Phl: Decade of fashion, flair and forward momentum | Daily Tribune

Inspired by the success stories of Filipino artists, creatives and entrepreneurs here and abroad, allow me to share the journey of a relative who bravely entered into the fashion, modeling and events business without any formal training.

Founded in 2015 in Manila, Main Models Philippines has steadily carved a niche in the local fashion landscape. Specializing in both fashion editorial and commercial modeling, the agency has become known for scouting fresh talent and positioning them before photographers, brands, and events that define style in the Philippines.

At the heart of the agency’s rise is Myk Labuguen, its visionary founder, who has spearheaded the agency from its modest beginning into a ten‑year-old company. Myk, or Epong to his family, grew up in Bangued, Abra and went to Manila where he earned a degree in Psychology.

Finding himself working at a BPO at night, he pursued his passion by side hustling events and shoots for clients during the day, starting in 2012. Loving working with beautiful people and finding it his true love, by 2015 he decided to make it his calling and business. From just five models in 2015, his stable grew to 300 models in 10 years. He has cultivated a prominent social media presence, notably on Facebook and Instagram under @myklabuguen, linking him directly to the agency’s creative endeavors and talent roster.

Last June, Main Models marked its 10th anniversary with an extravaganza dubbed “The Main Event.” The showcase featured 100 models and paid tribute to Myk’s decade‑long commitment to building a platform for both up‑and‑coming and established faces in the Philippine modeling scene. The event underscored the agency’s flair not only for model development but for fashion show production that resonates in the country’s competitive creative industry.

Main Models works enviably with both fashion-forward and commercial campaigns, arranging photo shoots for advertising, product launches, print media, and social media content.

Although it has yet to be recognized on the global stage, the agency’s foothold in local high‑end branding and boutique fashion circles reflects Myk’s ability to combine his scouting instincts with in‑house event curation and model representation. Notably, some models associated with Main Models have been featured in campaigns for fashion and lifestyle clients under Myk’s creative direction.

Under his leadership, Main Models has stayed nimble and digitally savvy, leveraging social media platforms for talent discovery and promotion. By blending runway shows, online showcases, and direct collaborations with creatives, the agency positions itself as both a talent factory and a fashion incubator. Myk’s role, both as founder and creative liaison, connects emerging models with opportunities in advertising, catalog shoots, and media exposure.

In ten years, Main Models has evolved into more than just a modeling agency. It has become a local trendsetter in Manila’s fashion ecosystem, anchored by Myk Labuguen’s entrepreneurial and creative resolve.