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The PAMANA (Heritage) parade in Vienna on June 1, 2024, was a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture. The colorful festivals from different provinces and islands of the Philippines came together to showcase their rich traditions. The event was part of the European Network of the Filipino Diaspora’s general assembly, bringing delegates from 17 European countries together.
As the parade kicked off at Stephansplatz, the renowned Austrian brass band “Musikverein Leopoldau” provided a lively soundtrack for the march. Hundreds of Filipinos living in Vienna, as well as local Austrian friends, joined in the festivities. Spectators were treated to a visual feast of costumes, street dancing, rituals, and traditions that highlighted the beauty of Filipino culture.
The parade route took participants through Graben, Schottengasse, and across the Ring to Sigmund Freud Park. On the park grounds in front of Votivkirche, various organizations presented special dance performances that captivated the audience. The event showcased how cultural exchanges strengthen people-to-people ties and promote community understanding.
Well appreciated
The Austrian brass band, Musikverein Leopoldau, played the Philippine National Anthem. Everyone proudly sang the hymn with the brass band.
One highlight of the day was a competition featuring traditional Filipino dances.
The Kulturang Pinoy sa Belgium took home the first prize with their captivating rendition of the Dinagyang Festival from the province of Iloilo. Second place went to the ENFiD group from Cyprus for their dance adaptation of the Ati-Atihan Festival, while the PCC Wiener Neustadt delegation from Austria secured third place for their medley of dances representing Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
Marizel Rojas, Chairman of ENFID Austria, expressed gratitude for the support shown by the Austrian community towards Filipinos in Vienna. She emphasized the hard work, dedication, and skills that Filipinos bring to enrich Austrian society. The event aimed to share the richness of Filipino culture with a wider audience and foster a greater appreciation for diversity.
“It is very fitting to say that the Filipinos here are very well integrated. They do not make any problem. We have excellent camaraderie with them; they are doing a great job! We are very proud of our Filipino friends. We wish them the best!” Mr. Hermann Kroiber, Secretary General of Vienna’s United Nations Correspondents Association, commented.
Overall, the PAMANA parade was a memorable showcase of Filipino heritage that brought joy and unity to all who participated. It served as a reminder of the importance of celebrating cultural diversity and building bridges between communities.
- Hector Pascua/hp and mandy salonga
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