On August 30, 2025, the golden anniversary of the 1975 batch of Filipino nurses in Austria was joyfully celebrated at the Marriott Hotel Vienna. The event paid tribute to the pioneering group of Filipino nurses who, five decades ago, arrived in Austria to serve in the country’s health sector. Their dedication and compassion not only strengthened Austria’s hospitals and care institutions but also paved the way for succeeding generations of Filipino healthcare professionals in Europe.
Hosted by the Retired Filipino Nurses Association in Austria, the celebration brought together honorees, their families, Austrian colleagues, and members of the Filipino community. The highlight of the evening was the awarding of certificates of recognition to each of the honorees. These certificates, signed by the Mayor of Vienna and the Ambassador of the Philippines to Austria, underscored the significance of their lifelong contributions. The honors were formally presented by Luise Däger-Gregori, representative of the Vienna government, alongside Philippine Ambassador to Austria Evangelina Arroyo-Bernas.
In her remarks, Ambassador Arroyo-Bernas praised the nurses for their unwavering commitment to service, describing them as “pillars of care who brought not only skill but also warmth and humanity to Austrian healthcare.” Däger-Gregori likewise acknowledged their role in bridging Austrian and Filipino communities through shared values of compassion and professionalism.
The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, cultural presentations, and moments of nostalgia as the honorees looked back on their journey from 1975 to today. What began as a professional opportunity grew into a lifelong mission of service, community building, and friendship between Austria and the Philippines.
The 50th anniversary celebration stood as a moving testament to the enduring legacy of these Filipino nurses whose dedication continues to inspire both nations.
THE HONOREES
January 1975
1. Rhodora A. Böhm
2. Teofista D. Bruna
3. Lilia M. Dagooc
4. Aida V. de Guzman
5. Minervina R. Haas
6. Myrna L. Patricio
7. Estrella S. Rauch
8. Maria Tessie B. Szauerzopf
February 1975
1. Lurline Sta. Cruz Kormann
2. Zenaida O. Luis
May 1975
1. Delia C. Magpantay
2. Teresita B. Malaluan
3. Carmencita B. Pavic
4. Editha B. Pölzlbauer
June 1975
1. Adelwisa N. Calanog
2. Gloria Velina
3. Annie P. Zdesar
August 1975
1. Dorcas N. Aigner
2. Myrna S. Andaya
3. Maria Romana B. Auinger
4. Adelina Broinger
5. Erlinda A. Czermak
6. Fe Y. Dasco
7. Vicky J. Kamlander
8. Lolita B. Kappel
9. Remedios C. Protzner
10. Florencia A. Scheuchel
11. Ofelia J. Tablante
December 1975
1. Susana G. Arreza
2. Evangeline D. Aschenbrenner
3. Macrina A. Cudiamat
4. Irma L. Hudecek
5. Linda I. Montes
6. Aida J. Roethel
7. Mediatrix R. Schafra
8. Elizabeth A. Schallmayer
- Hector Pascua
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