Artistic expression thrives throughout the region with ballets, symphonies, plays and other creative performances
The leading creatives on Asia’s Most Influential list ensure that artistic expression thrives everywhere in the region. As leaders of cultural institutions, they support and develop the region’s symphonies, ballets, plays and other forms of theatrical art, which not only provide entertainment to audiences but also inspire and challenge them. Often a mirror of reality and history, these creative performances reflect the values and traditions of society or comment on important issues such as inequality and injustice. It’s important to support artistic institutions so they can continue to nurture homegrown talents, including dancers, actors, writers and directors, and also preserve Asia’s cultural heritage.
Margarita ‘Margie’ Moran-Floirendo, president, Cultural Center of the Philippines (Philippines)
Appointed president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) last year, Margie Moran-Floirendo took on the important undertaking of renovating the country’s premier institution for artistic and cultural experiences. Since she first rose to national prominence after being crowned Miss Universe in 1973, Moran-Floirendo has become an important pillar of the Philippine cultural landscape, and has previously served as president of Ballet Philippines and chairman of the CCP.
As head of the CCP, Moran-Floirendo expressed the need to upgrade acoustic systems, revamp dressing rooms and refurbish interiors to future-proof the institution. In March 2023, the president and the CCP hosted a fundraiser gala featuring tenor Arthur Espiritu, soprano Stefanie Quintin and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Chamber Ensemble, to support the rehabilitation of the Tanghalang Pambansa, the main building within the CCP complex that had been designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin.
Despite ongoing renovations, the CCP maintains a full schedule at alternate venues, with the Ballet Philippines’ adaptation of Diyosa set for April 2023 and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s 50th-anniversary gala slated for May. “We hope to complete the rehabilitation by 2025, so we can open our venues again to the public in 2026. When we reopen the CCP Main Building, the public can expect a globally competitive performance venue and tourist destination,” said Moran-Floirendo.
Read Margarita ‘Margie’ Moran-Floirendo’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential