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VIENNA, Austria — Filipino and Austrian cultures merged over wooden boards, cowrie shells, stones and glass marbles on 18 April 2026 at the RAMBAK Austria Sungka Workshop 2026 .
Held in collaboration with the Austrian-Philippine Society, the event brought together migrants, locals, and academics for an afternoon of heritage gamin. It opened with an informative presentation on ancient Sungka and the Mancala family of games, delivered by Dr. Johann Stockinger. Attendees then shared childhood memories of Sungka—comparing rule variations passed down through generations in Philippine provinces versus those adapted by the diaspora.
Cross-generational and cross-cultural connection took center stage, with participants of Filipino and Austrian lineage playing side by side, exchanging stories, and learning from one another. The gathering carried special significance as 2026 marks the 80th Anniversary of Philippine-Austrian Diplomatic Relations, making this intergenerational exchange a fitting tribute to eight decades of friendship between the two nations. The afternoon underscored how traditional games can serve as living bridges between heritages, especially meaningful for families raising children with both Filipino and Austrian roots.
Representatives from ENFiD-Austria were present as staunch supporters of Rambak Austria. In line with the organization’s 4Es Pillars—Elevating Arts and Culture—their participation highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting Filipino heritage through interactive, community-driven platforms.
Also in attendance were representatives from Barangay Centre, further strengthening the community network dedicated to Filipino-Austrian cultural exchange. Their presence reinforced the collaborative effort to nurture a sense of belonging across generations.
What followed was a lively afternoon of play, conversation, and shared meals—grandparents, parents, and children all gathered around the Sungka board.
In a significant boost for the community, Petra Geiger-Kletzl from Weltladen Eisenstadt donated four authentic Sungka sets sourced directly from the Philippines to RAMBAK.
Organizers are already looking ahead, inviting the public to a Pamilya Treff for parents and children under five on 23 May 2026, followed by a RAMBAK Gag-Ay grilling event on 14 June 2026. Rambak Austria is also confirmed to participate in the ENFiD-Austria Pamana V/Heritage V/ Erbe V Philippine Festivals Parade and Culinary Extravaganza on 5 September 2026.
Photos ctto: Rambak Austria & Joel Rojas
About ENFiD-Austria
Established on15 October 2017 as part of diaspora movement with 15 member countries, connecting Filipinos across Europe, ENFiD-Austria organizes activities and events to implement the 4Es Pillars on Education and Learning, Elevating Arts and Culture, Embracing the Environment and Empowering Euro Filipino Youth.
ENFiD (European Network of Filipino Diaspora)
Founded in Rome in 2012, ENFiD is a pan-European umbrella organization that connects and empowers Filipino communities across the continent. Its mission is to amplify the collective voice of the diaspora, promote integration into European societies, and maintain strong ties to the Philippines .
About the Author
Maria Zelda “Marizel” Rojas
Affiliations: ENFiD-Austria Chairperson, ENFiD Adviser, UNCAV Board Member, UNWG 1st Vice President, EPA Liaison for the Philippines and Councillor/Board Member, VIC Art Club Activities Coordinator, Knights of the Order of the Golden Spur Member, FWN Member/Awardee, VIC Club Filipino Adviser/Former President, PACES Founding Member/Former President, BSA President
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