Michelle Nikki Junia, an early childhood educator and accomplished performing artist, assumed the role of President Ad Interim at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) on September 1, 2023. Her election to this position was confirmed by the CCP Board of Trustees on August 16, 2023.
Junia, who has served as a board trustee at CCP since 2016, takes over the position previously held by Maria Margarita Moran-Floirendo. Moran-Floirendo now holds the ad interim co-vice chairperson position at CCP, alongside Atty. Lorna P. Kapunan.
Junia holds a degree in Music Education with a major in voice (cum laude) from the UST Conservatory of Music, where she studied under the tutelage of Maestra Irma Ponce-Enrile Potenciano. Her passion for teaching music and performing on stage began at the young age of 15.
She is a former child singer and an original member of the 14K, a group of scholars mentored by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab. Junia, whose family hails from Tolosa, Leyte, has graced stages not only in the Philippines but also in key Asian countries and the United States. Her 2009 record album titled “Back in Time” received critical acclaim from the media, earning her the moniker “singer with a mission” for her captivating musical talents.
Junia also underwent voice training in California, USA, under the guidance of Hollywood’s renowned vocal coach, Seth Riggs. Seth Riggs is known for his “speech level singing technique” and has coached some of the world’s most celebrated performers, including Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Barbara Streisand, Stevie Wonder, Natalie Cole, and others.
Currently, Junia manages and owns MUSIKGARTEN MANILA, a school dedicated to music education. She was appointed as a trustee on the Board of Trustees of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in October 2016.
As CCP President Ad Interim, Junia aims to introduce CCP programs to younger audiences, a significant portion of the population, by leveraging art integration and digital technology. She recognizes the importance of utilizing technology, including social media and various digital platforms, for promotion and marketing. Junia’s vision for CCP revolves around integration and inclusivity, bridging the gap between the older generation’s appreciation of art and the new generation’s understanding of it. She believes CCP should be accessible to all, regardless of social and economic status or gender, a philosophy that CCP has already embraced through initiatives like Kanto Kultura programs.
Junia stresses CCP’s growing relevance in the fast-paced modern world, emphasizing its evolution and responsiveness to the changing needs of society. Her goal is to expand CCP’s reach to a wider audience, continue outreach programs, and bring the essence of CCP to various regions, transcending the physical building. She underlines that CCP is not merely a structure but the embodiment of culture and art that should be shared with people throughout the country. Cultural exchanges will also be a priority during her term to enhance cultural promotion.
Additionally, during her tenure as CCP President, Junia intends to inspire Filipinos to find their place in the global artistic industry, elevate the status of artists, and educate families about the significance of arts and culture.
