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VIENNA, Austria — In celebration of the 128th Philippine Independence Day, the Philippine-Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), together with ENFID and Babaylan Austria, organized the traditional Floral Offering Ceremony at the Catalpa Tree in the Vienna City Hall Garden (Rathauspark), reaffirming the enduring friendship and strong bilateral ties between the Philippines and Austria.
The ceremony, held beneath the flourishing Catalpa trees, highlighted more than a century of Philippine independence and commemorated the longstanding relationship between the two nations. The Catalpa Tree, first planted in 1998 during the Philippine Centennial Celebration of Independence, has become a powerful symbol of unity, cooperation, and cultural exchange. Its distinctive trumpet-shaped flowers represent the bright future of Philippine-Austrian relations and the shared values cherished by both countries.
Welcoming guests to the event, Dr. Jane Abaya, President of the Philippine-Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), reflected on the significance of the annual tradition.
“I welcome you all today with joyful gratitude for this traditional event in commemoration of Philippine Independence Day, the 128th Independence Day, and our traditional floral offering here at the Vienna Rathaus Park,” she said.
Dr. Abaya noted three reasons why this year’s celebration was especially meaningful. First, PACES is marking its 10th anniversary and has spearheaded the floral offering ceremony for eight consecutive years. Second, the organization was pleased to collaborate this year with ENFID and Babaylan Austria, demonstrating greater unity within the Filipino community.
Her Excellency Evangelina Arroyo Bernas, Philippine Ambassador to Austria, delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the importance of community solidarity and the contributions of Filipinos in Austria.
“I want to thank PACES for continuing this very important tradition and for bringing together this year ENFID and Babaylan as co-organizers in the true spirit of Bayanihan,” Ambassador Bernas said.
“It is indeed good to see how tall and strong the Catalpa trees are and that both trees have become just like our friendship with Austria.”
The Ambassador also praised the Filipino community for its positive impact on Austrian society.
“Thank you all for raising the profile of Filipino-Austrians and showing how well our community is integrated here. Indeed, you have contributed much to the growth of the social, economic, and cultural life in Vienna,” she added.
Representing the City of Vienna, Health Minister Mag. Peter Hacker used the occasion not only to celebrate Philippine independence but also to reflect on the significance of democracy and freedom as Austria marks 80 years of renewed democratic governance and bilateral relations with the Philippines.
Drawing parallels between the histories of both nations, Hacker acknowledged Austria’s difficult past during World War II and stressed that democracy and independence must never be taken for granted.
He emphasized that freedom is not a one-time achievement but a continuous responsibility requiring vigilance, unity, and collective effort—especially in a world facing growing divisions and uncertainty.
Adding a solemn and uplifting dimension to the ceremony, Missy Zavala performed the national anthems of the Philippines and Austria. Her moving rendition resonated throughout the garden, symbolizing the shared respect and friendship between the two nations while underscoring the power of music to unite people across cultures.
The cultural program continued with performances by the Providence Choir and Couples for Christ Choir, who rendered traditional Filipino songs in Tagalog. Babaylan Austria further showcased Philippine heritage through a vibrant folk dance presentation that delighted attendees and celebrated the richness of Filipino culture.
Throughout the ceremony, guests admired the thriving Catalpa trees, whose continued growth over the past 28 years mirrors the strengthening relationship between Austria and the Philippines. The blooming flowers served as a visible reminder of the friendship that has flourished between the two countries and the contributions of generations of Filipinos living in Austria.
The Floral Offering Ceremony was more than a commemorative event; it was a celebration of Filipino heritage, a tribute to the sacrifices that secured Philippine independence, and a reaffirmation of the commitment of both nations to promote peace, understanding, cooperation, and cultural exchange.
As participants gathered beneath the blossoming Catalpa trees, the message was clear: like the trees themselves, the friendship between the Philippines and Austria continues to grow stronger with each passing year.
This version follows a professional newspaper style with improved structure, flow, attribution, and consistency while preserving the key quotes and details from the event.
- Hector Pascua
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