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The Council of Filipino Associations in Austria (CFAA) recently held a significant election at the Marco Polo Restaurant in Vienna’s 2nd District, where member organizations gathered to elect a new set of officers. This event signifies the continuation of leadership and the commitment of the Filipino community in Austria to collective progress and unity. The outgoing chairman, Rey Arreza, took a moment to express his heartfelt gratitude for the support he received throughout his term, encouraging the new officers to continue striving for the welfare of the Filipino community.
A New Leadership Step Forward
Elected as the new chairman is Mr. Elmer Blanco, the Global Save Life Foundation president. Mr. Blanco’s familiarity with the community and leadership experience, having previously led the CFAA for two terms, make him a well-respected choice. His acceptance speech characterized his dedication to working selflessly to achieve the CFAA’s ambitions. With a clear vision for progress, Mr. Blanco aims to amplify the voices of Filipinos in Austria, ensuring that their needs and aspirations are represented in the broader community.
Key Goals for the New Leadership:
1. Unity Among Organizations: Mr. Blanco emphasized the importance of unity among the various Filipino organizations that make up the CFAA. Stronger collaboration will lead to a more effective representation of all Filipinos in Austria.
2. Active Participation in Community Activities: A commitment to involvement in local events and initiatives was highlighted, ensuring that the Filipino community is present and influential in various capacities.
3. Promoting Integration: As the Republic of Austria advocates, the CFAA’s continued objective of supporting integration efforts will remain a priority under the new leadership. This includes participating in discussions and activities relevant to social cohesion.
The History and Objectives of the CFAA
Established in 2000, the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria was born out of the need for unity within the country’s diverse Filipino community. With numerous organizations catering to various interests, the CFAA was formed to consolidate these groups, promoting collaboration and understanding.
Fundamental Objectives of the CFAA:
- Unification of Filipino Organizations: To unite different groups under one umbrella, the CFAA seeks to foster dialogue, coordination, and mutual support among member organizations.
- Active Participation: The CFAA actively engages in the activities of other organizations beyond its own, promoting cooperation within the broader context of Austrian society.
- Integration Promotion: Recognizing the importance of inclusion, the CFAA aims to assist the Philippine community in fully integrating into Austrian society, advocating for their rights and representation.
The Role of the Commission on Elections
Dorcy Aigner, who headed the Commission on Elections, oversaw the election process. Hector Pascua and Romy Molina served as members. Their governance ensured a fair and transparent election procedure, reflecting the democratic values that the CFAA upholds. The smooth execution of the election signifies the commitment among member organizations to uphold integrity and respect in all endeavours.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
With Mr. Blanco at the helm, the CFAA is poised to embark on a renewed journey towards achieving its vision of a unified, progressive, and peaceful Filipino community in Austria. The incoming officers are encouraged to work harmoniously, ensuring that decisions reflect the collective best interests of the community they represent.
As the CFAA moves forward, its members are reminded of the essential role they play in enhancing the visibility of Filipinos in Austria and contributing to the cultural richness of Austrian society. Mr. Blanco’s leadership’s commitment to unity and progress is a hopeful indication of the Filipino community’s ongoing positive trajectory.
Complete List of the New Officers of the Council Filipino Associations in Austria 2025-2027
Chairman – Global Save Life Foundation (Elmer Blanco)
Vice Chairman – Association of Pangasinenses in Austria (Bong Arce)
Secretary – Filipino Assistance Movement in Austria (Carmen Pacaígue)
Assistant Secretary – Philippine Association of Medical Technologists – PAMET – (Nida)
Treasurer – Förderung philippinische Kultur und Folklore (Richel Bögner)
Assistant Treasurer – Eugenio Daberto Memorial Foundation (Becbec Dionela)
Auditor – Igorot Association in Austria (Anni Hruschka)
Assistant Auditor – Verein Filipina in Österreich (Johmarie Somera)
Conclusion
The recent election of the CFAA’s new officers marks a pivotal moment for the Filipino community in Austria. With strong leadership and a clear vision for the future, the council can continue to champion the interests of its members while promoting integration and unity. As they embark on this new chapter, one can only anticipate its positive impact on the community’s development and representation in Austrian society. The success of the CFAA in fulfilling its mission relies on collective effort, and with engaged leadership, the future looks bright for Filipinos in Austria.
- Hector Pascua
