Month: December 2024

Marikit Markt Brings Filipino Christmas Spirit to Vienna

admin

Vienna, Austria – The festive season comes alive in Vienna with the opening of Marikit Markt, Austria’s first Filipino Christmas pop-up market. Initiated by Sherry Bongalon, a proud Pinay mother, the event celebrates Filipino culture and tradition under the banner “Paskong Pinoy in Vienna.” Located at Sebastian-Kelchgasse 4-6/1 in the 14th district, the market welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Saturday, December 7, 2024. This unique pop-up offers a vibrant selection of goods, including clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, books, décor, handmade items, and holiday gifts. Filipino…

Read More

Philippine Association in Niederösterreich Staged Christmas Party

admin

The festive spirit filled the air as the Philippine Association in Niederösterreich (PANÖ) held its Get-Together Christmas Party and Induction of Officers on 30 November 2024. Hosted at the picturesque Landhaus, Summer “Schnitzelwirt” in Inning, Lower Austria, this gathering served as a double celebration, honouring the association’s elected officers while fostering community ties through cultural exchange and charitable efforts. A Night of Joy and Togetherness The evening was not just about festivities; it encapsulated a sense of shared purpose and collective goodwill. The highlight of the event was the induction…

Read More

Austria: Care allowance increase in 2025 promises up to 95 euros more per month

admin

The increase in care allowance in 2025 will bring an important financial improvement for over 475,000 Austrian recipients. Those affected can look forward to an increase of 4.6 percent, which means up to 95 euros more per month. The Austrian care allowance will be significantly increased from January 1, 2025. The increase affects all seven care levels and is granted regardless of income, as finanz.at reports. The increase is staggered as follows, depending on the care level:Level 1: From 192.00 to 200.80 eurosLevel 2: From 354.00 to 370.30 eurosLevel 3:…

Read More

Paracetamol: New side effect of the popular painkiller discovered

admin

Paracetamol can be found in almost every household and is often taken for pain or fever. The over-the-counter drug is considered to be well tolerated and is often taken as a first choice for minor ailments. However, according to the STADA Health Report of 2023, many people are not sufficiently informed about the risks of the medication. In particular, the fact that paracetamol has no anti-inflammatory effect and is only safe in the recommended dose is often overlooked. The German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) has now…

Read More

Festive Cheer marks the annual Christmas tree illumination at the Vienna International Center

admin

Vienna, Austria, 4 December 2024 — The Rotunda at the Vienna International Centre (VIC) was aglow with holiday spirit on Wednesday evening as the annual Christmas Tree Illumination, organized by the Vienna Service Office led by Angelika Wölfer, brought together staff, diplomats, and families for an enchanting celebration. The City of Vienna once again donated the magnificent Christmas tree, beautifully decorated with ornaments crafted by children from Vienna’s “Bildungsgrätzl” schools. This year’s theme, inspired by Articles 12 and 13 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasized…

Read More

United Nations in Vienna Marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities

admin

Vienna, Austria, 3 December 2024 – The United Nations Disability Inclusion Network (DIN) successfully organized a two-part celebration for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at the Vienna International Centre (VIC) on 3 December 2024. This annual observance highlights the importance of inclusion and accessibility while showcasing success stories and ongoing efforts to empower persons with disabilities. Part I: Round Table Discussions The morning commenced with insightful roundtable discussions, during which individuals and organizations advocating for disability rights and inclusion shared inspiring success stories. This session underscored the importance of…

Read More

How much Austrians want to spend on presents at Christmas

admin

Now that the high wave of inflation has subsided, the Christ Child is again more generous this year than last year. At least, that is the result of a survey conducted by the Austrian Retail Association.According to the survey, 92% of Austrians plan to give presents to their loved ones this Christmas. They plan to spend an average of 386 euros, 7 percent more than last year. In 2023, the consumer mood was also low in Advent due to inflation, with an average Christmas spend of 360 euros.Despite the increase,…

Read More

A Journey of Culture, Faith, and Connection in Italy

admin

Vienna, Austria, 25 November 2024— Members and friends of the Bikol Society Austria (BSA), including Marizel Rojas, Ning Lobrigo, Lolit Kaszuba, and Cherry Faller, embarked on a profound journey to Picinisco and Rome, Italy, from 21 to 24 November 2024. This visit reflected BSA’s enduring commitment to celebrating the Filipino-Bikolano identity while forging meaningful connections with cultural and spiritual advocates. A Cultural Exchange in Picinisco In the picturesque town of Picinisco, the group was warmly welcomed by Fr. Edmer Erongo, a Filipino-Bikolano priest serving the community, along with Mr. Giorgio…

Read More

The Feast of St. Nicholas: Celebrating Kindness and Generosity

admin

The Feast of St. Nicholas, celebrated on 6 December, honors the life and legacy of St. Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop renowned for his generosity, humility, and deep care for the less fortunate. This day is special in Christian tradition, particularly in Europe, and is marked by unique customs and heartwarming rituals emphasizing kindness and giving. St. Nicholas is widely recognized as the inspiration behind the modern figure of Santa Claus. However, his story goes far beyond the commercialized image of gift-giving. Known as a protector of children and…

Read More