..the Metro mag

Metro Magazine iPad edition wins Asian award

abs-cbnNEWS.com

07/19/2011

Mark Yambot (2nd from right) accepting the award for Metro Magazine at the Asian Publishing Awards. Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN Corporate Communications

MANILA, Philippines - ABS-CBN Publishing’s Metro Magazine iPad Edition was named winner of Best Use of Screen Tablet Platform at the Asian Publishing Awards (APA) held recently in Bangkok, Thailand.

It won in one of the most contested of the 11 categories of the awards, which included entries from 9 countries from across the region.

At the Awards, the Metro Magazine iPad Edition was cited for “not being merely as a translation of its printed edition into a digital screen, but as an extension of the brand with its own personality and capabilities offering a different reading experience altogether.”

It was acknowledged for its achievements in its business model and content, as Metro has consistently been among the most downloaded Lifestyle apps since its launch in 2010.

“In ABS-CBN we appreciate every opportunity to promote the best in Filipino style, fashion and culture. We are excited to be doing this in a highly engaging medium that has a fast growing global reach," said Mark Yambot, Head of Business Development for ABS-CBN’s Cable Channels and Print Media Group, in his acceptance remarks.

ABS-CBN Publishing joined winners from 9 countries, which included 3 others from the Philippines. Adobo Magazine topped the “Effective Digital Publishing” category, and Excellence Awards were given to Hinge Inquirer Publications, which was cited in the category of “Innovative Business Models”, and to Manila Water Company, for “Innovative Corporate Communications in a Multimedia World”.

“With Metro Magazine iPad Edition, ABS-CBN Publishing became the first Philippine magazine on the iPad.

After almost one year, it continues to set the standard in terms of great articles and interactive features…This award is welcome news, and recognition that we are bringing content and technology together at an internationally competitive level”, said ABS-CBN Publishing Head Ernie Lopez.

According to Lopez, the app also helps them connect with overseas Filipinos: “From the feedback we are getting, Metro iPad makes them proud of their culture and present the Philippines as in step with global style and technology trends.”

Anticipating the rapid growth in viewing magazines online, ABS-CBN Publishing launched several digital offerings in the past year, including e-magazine editions of StarStudio, Metro Home & Entertaining, Food, Kris Aquino Magazine, Metro Society, and Vault—which are now available for readers worldwide through their PCs, Macs, iPads and selected Android devices.