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The Filipino community in Austria came together on June 7, 2025, to celebrate the 127th Philippine Independence Day, a momentous occasion marked by a rich tapestry of culture, unity, and gratitude. Hosted at the prestigious Marriott Hotel in Vienna’s first district, the celebration attracted a blend of Filipino and foreign guests, all eager to honor the Philippines’ historic milestone. This gathering, orchestrated by the Council of Filipino Associations Austria (CFAA), underscored the importance of community, tradition, and philanthropy, reflecting the spirit of Filipinos both at home and abroad.
A Grand Opening with Reverence
The event commenced with an invocation by Fr. Ely Dalanon of the Catholic Chaplaincy in Vienna, setting a tone of reflection and respect for the sacrifices made for Philippine independence. Following this, Klemens Hruska led the assembly in the Philippine National Anthem, instilling a sense of national pride among the attendees. The harmonious blend of voices created an atmosphere filled with reverence, capturing the essence of what it means to be Filipino, even while far from home.
Celebrating Achievements and Philanthropy
Elmer Blanco, the CFAA chairman, delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the achievements of the organization over the past two decades. These accomplishments have not only served to unify the Filipino community in Austria but have also significantly contributed to charitable projects in the Philippines. Blanco articulated the following key points in his address:
1. Charity Projects: CFAA’s commitment to aid the less fortunate in the Philippines has manifested through various initiatives, including medical missions and disaster relief efforts.
2. Education Support: The organization has provided scholarships to deserving students, empowering the next generation and encouraging academic excellence.
3. Community Building: By uniting Filipinos in Austria, CFAA fosters a sense of belonging, allowing members to connect and support one another.
Blanco’s gratitude towards member organizations and officers was palpable, as he acknowledged their unwavering support for the council’s ideals and projects.
A detailed presentation by Marjorie Akistoy showcased the CFAA’s numerous outreach projects in the Philippines. Her slides chronicled the breadth of their work—offering medical support, educational opportunities, and emergency assistance.
Showcasing Filipino Culture
The celebration was not solely focused on achievements; it also provided a vibrant platform for showcasing Filipino culture. Attendees were treated to a series of folk dance performances that brought the islands of the Philippines to life. Groups representing various regions presented traditional dance forms, including:
– The Igorot dance from the Cordillera region,
– The Malong Dance from Mindanao,
– The lively Tinkling dance from Luzon.
The highlight of the cultural presentation was the Rigodon de Honor, choreographed by Dorcy Aigner. This elegant dance featured members of CFAA and the broader Filipino community, showcasing their rich heritage and unity through movement. The audience was further entertained as Klemens Hruska, an Austrian married to Filipino Annie Hruska, serenaded them with a classic Kundiman, endearing the hearts of many.
Acknowledging Support and Contributions
Ambassador Evangelina Arroyo-Bernas took the stage to express her appreciation for the CFAA’s initiatives, which greatly support the embassy’s programs. Her remarks reiterated the crucial role of the Philippine community abroad in promoting national interests and amplifying the voice of Filipinos worldwide.
In his closing remarks, Jose Frederick Arce, CFAA Vice Chairman, acknowledged the vital contributions of sponsors and the organizing committees that made the Independence Day Ball a success. He extended his gratitude to all attendees for their participation, fostering a spirit of camaraderie among everyone present.
A Celebration of Unity and Heritage
This year’s celebration of the Philippine Independence Day in Austria served as a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the importance of cultural heritage. Through engaging performances, inspiring speeches, and a shared commitment to philanthropy, the Filipino community came together to not only honor their homeland but also to uplift one another. As we reflect on these festivities, it is clear that events like these not only celebrate independence but also enrich the bonds among Filipinos abroad, ultimately exemplifying the ideals of unity, culture, and gratitude. The journey towards empowerment and social responsibility continues, building bridges between the Filipino diaspora and their homeland.
- Hector Pascua
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