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VIENNA, Austria — The Philippine Nurses Association in Austria (PNAA) formally inducted its newly elected officers during a ceremonial gathering held at the Marriott Hotel in Vienna on March 14, 2026. The event brought together members of the Filipino community, healthcare professionals, and distinguished guests in celebration of leadership, service, and unity within the nursing profession.
In her opening remarks, newly elected PNAA President Ms. Imelda Pfleger warmly welcomed the guests and attendees, expressing gratitude for the trust and confidence placed in the new leadership.
“I am honored and humbled to stand before you as the newly elected president of our association. Thank you for the trust you have given me and the officers who are being inducted tonight,” Pfleger said. “This ceremony is more than a formal induction. It is a reminder of who we are and why we serve. As Filipino nurses in Austria, we carry not only professional skills but also the heart of service, resilience, and compassion that define our identity.”
She emphasized the important role Filipino nurses play in bridging cultures and promoting quality healthcare.
“We stand as bridges between cultures, as advocates of quality care and models of excellence in the nursing profession. As we begin this new chapter, we commit to living with integrity, unity, and vision. Together, we will continue to uplift one another, support professional growth, and strengthen our presence as a respected community in Austria,” she added. “Let tonight inspire us to serve with renewed passion, to lead with courage, and to move forward with hope and purpose.”
The invocation was delivered by Mag. Hector Pascua, who offered prayers for the guidance and success of the newly elected officers as they begin their term of service.
The evening’s guest speaker, Ambassador Evangeline Lourdes Arroyo-Bernas, expressed her appreciation for the PNAA and its vital role in supporting Filipino nurses in Austria. She shared that one of her first engagements with the Filipino community upon her arrival in 2023 was also with the Philippine Nurses Association.
“We at the Philippine Embassy strive hard to make sure that you are recognized and appreciated,” the ambassador said. “We hope to work together with you for the new nurses coming in under our memorandum of agreement with Vienna and the Federal Government.”
She also highlighted the unique qualities Filipino nurses bring to the healthcare sector.
“You are known for your empathy and the way you advocate for your patients. I believe it is inherent in our culture. Thank you very much for the role that you play. We honor you, nurses. We continue to appreciate you not only in the Philippines but also here in Austria,” she added.
Event moderator Ms. Hilda Koschier presented a brief overview of the history of the Philippine Nurses Association in Austria, highlighting its growth, milestones, and contributions to the Filipino healthcare community in the country.
Following the formal induction ceremony, guests were treated to a series of cultural presentations. Robin and Annabelle Roda performed classical piano pieces, while PNAA and Friends entertained the audience with the lively Meherio Polynesian Dances.
A highlight of the evening was the surprise appearance of Filipino-Austrian singer Vincent Bueno, who previously represented Austria in the Eurovision Song Contest. Together with Daniel Garces, he performed the beloved song “I Am From Austria.” Bueno also performed his Eurovision entry “Amen.” The musical program continued with Miguel de Vera, who delighted the audience with popular Original Pilipino Music (OPM) hits and ballroom songs.
The ballroom was officially opened after a dance number presented by the officers and members of the Philippine Nurses Association in Austria, inviting guests to join the celebration and fellowship that followed.
The newly inducted officers of the Philippine Nurses Association in Austria are:
- Imelda Pfleger, President
- Hilda Koschier, MSc, Vice President
- Mary Ann Buzek, Secretary
- Irvin Quilon, Assistant Secretary
- Sara Ledesma, Treasurer
- Merle Buhisan, Assistant Treasurer
- Lorenda Salazar, Imelda Gonzales, and Ann Garces, Auditors
- Virginia Radl, Dorcas Aigner, Zenaida Lapiz, and Daniel Garces, Advisers
The evening concluded with fellowship among attendees, reinforcing the association’s commitment to unity, professional development, and continued service to the Filipino community and the Austrian healthcare system.
- Hector Pascua
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