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As the Christmas season approaches, celebrations unfold across the globe, rich with culture and tradition. One such vibrant celebration occurred in Vienna, where the Filipino community gathered for “Pasko ng Pagkakaisa” in the 10th District of Vienna, Citadines South Vienna. This event not only highlighted the festive mood of the season but also underscored the sense of belonging and solidarity among Filipinos living abroad.
The warmth of the Filipino spirit was palpable from the moment attendees arrived. The gathering commenced with a heartfelt opening prayer by Ning Lobrigo of the Bikol Society in Austria. In her prayer, she expressed gratitude for the community’s blessings throughout the year. These words resonated deeply with everyone present, setting a tone of joy and reflection for the evening ahead. Such moments illustrate how Filipinos maintain a strong connection to their roots even in a foreign land, reinforcing the significance of gratitude during the festive season.
Greetings from the Philippine Embassy
Adding to the celebration was the presence of Consul Chryzel Sicat from the Philippine Embassy in Vienna. Her participation symbolized supporting and recognizing the Filipino community’s efforts from their home country. Consul Sicat captivated the audience by performing two song numbers in an engaging camaraderie display. This entertained the attendees and strengthened her bond with the community, making everyone feel closer to their homeland.
Festivities and Entertainment
The evening progressed into a series of delightful activities that encapsulated the spirit of Christmas. These included:
1. Surprise Presentations: Various performances from community members added layers of entertainment and showcased their diverse talents. Laughter and applause filled the air as each act resonated with the audience.
2. Ballroom Dancing: Introducing a ballroom dancing session encouraged community bonding through the joy of dance. Young and old participants were taken to the floor to celebrate their culture and friendships.
3. Tombola Raffle: The Tombola raffle, a highly awaited evening highlight, offered attendees the chance to win exciting prizes. Those who won came home with smiles and gifts, embodying the season’s spirit of giving and joy.
Such activities intertwined joy and unity, reminding everyone of the rich culture they represent, even when far from home.
The Organizers’ Hard Work
The success of “Pasko ng Pagkakaisa ”can be largely attributed to the diligent efforts of the event’s main organizers: Marizel Roxas, Lolit Kaszuba, and Ning Lobrigo. Their dedication to bringing the community together for this Christmas celebration reflects on their organizational skills and their passion for fostering unity and celebration among Filipinos in Vienna. By rallying various Filipino organizations and their members, they created a platform for everyone to reunite, build connections, and create lasting memories.
Reflecting on the Year and Looking Ahead
As the evening drew to a close, it became a moment of reflection for many. Participants discussed their accomplishments over the past year and the significance of the Filipino community’s presence in Vienna. “Pasko ng Pagkakaisa” served as a festive gathering and a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of Filipinos living abroad. The event emphasized how, despite geographic distances, the bonds formed remain unbroken, and together, they can create a vibrant and supportive community.
The “Pasko ng Pagkakaisa” event in Vienna beautifully illustrates the significance of community, celebration, and cultural identity among Filipinos in foreign lands. It encapsulated the essence of the holiday season—unity, gratitude, and joy shared with loved ones and friends. As the Filipino community continues to flourish in Austria, it is clear that such celebrations will strengthen their ties to one another and uphold the legacies of their culture and traditions. In a world that often feels fragmented, events like these serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the profound impact of community and togetherness during the festive season.
- Hector Pascua
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