Newly Elected Officers of CFAA Inducted at Philippine Embassy in Vienna

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Vienna, Austria – The newly elected officers of the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria (CFAA) were formally inducted into office in a ceremony held at the Philippine Embassy in Vienna. Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General, Atty. Zoilo A. Velasco, officiated the induction and commended the strong partnership between the embassy and the Filipino community.

Atty. Velasco highlighted the mutual achievements fostered by collaboration and expressed optimism for continued unity and cooperation under the new leadership. He emphasized that the embassy values its partnership with the CFAA, which is crucial in uniting and supporting the kababayans in Austria.

Elmer Blanco, the newly elected Chairman of the CFAA, delivered an inspiring acceptance speech, underscoring his commitment to advancing the organization’s mission. Blanco vowed to work selflessly to achieve the council’s goals and emphasized a vision centered on unity, progress, and representation.

“With a clear direction for progress, I aim to amplify the voices of Filipinos in Austria, ensuring their needs and aspirations are heard and addressed,” said Blanco. He called for stronger collaboration among the various Filipino organizations that comprise the CFAA, stressing that collective efforts are key to more effective representation in Austria’s broader community. Blanco likewise enjoined his fellow officers and members present to readily help and support the needy “kababayans” back home in the Philippines.

Blanco’s speech resonated deeply with the attendees, who represented a cross-section of Austria’s vibrant Filipino community. His vision of inclusivity and teamwork was widely applauded, setting an optimistic tone for the new leadership term.

Strengthening a Legacy of Unity

Founded in 2000, the CFAA addresses the need for greater unity within Austria’s diverse Filipino diaspora. The council serves as an umbrella organization for numerous Filipino associations, each catering to specific interests, professions, or causes. The CFAA aims to promote understanding, solidarity, and collective advocacy by fostering collaboration among these groups.

Over the years, the council has been instrumental in organizing cultural, social, and humanitarian initiatives, creating a platform for Filipinos to celebrate their heritage while integrating into Austrian society. The organization also plays a pivotal role in addressing the community’s challenges and advocating for their welfare.

As the CFAA enters a new chapter under Blanco’s leadership, it will focus on strengthening ties within the community and enhancing its impact on Austrian society. Blanco emphasized the importance of unity, stating, “Our diversity is our strength. By working together, we can achieve greater things for our community and ensure no voice is left unheard.”

A Promising Path Ahead

Leaders of Filipino organizations, embassy officials, and members of the Filipino community attended the induction ceremony. It reminded them of the strong ties that bind Filipinos in Austria and their shared commitment to supporting one another.

Under the new leadership, the CFAA aims to build on its legacy of collaboration, championing the aspirations of Filipinos in Austria while fostering deeper connections with local institutions.

The event concluded with a sense of renewed enthusiasm as the community rallied behind its new officers and their vision for the future. The ceremony marked not just the beginning of a new term but a reaffirmation of Filipinos’ collective strength and resilience in Austria.

Complete List of the New Officers of the Council Filipino Associations in Austria 2025-2027

Chairman – Global Save Life Foundation (Elmer Blanco)

Vice Chairman – Association of Pangasinenses in Austria (Frederick Arce)

Secretary – Filipino Assistance Movement in Austria (Carmen Pacaígue)

Assistant Secretary – Philippine Association of Medical Technologists – PAMET – (Teresita Nida Hahn))

Treasurer – Förderung philippinische Kultur und Folklore (Richel Bögner)

Assistant Treasurer – Eugenio Daberto Memorial Foundation (Arieta Dionela)

Auditor – Igorot Association in Austria (Anni Hruschka)

Assistant Auditor – Verein Filipina in Österreich (Johmarie Somera)