127th Proclamation of Philippine Independence Celebrated by the Philippine Embassy in Vienna

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On June 12, 2025, the Philippine Embassy in Vienna celebrated the 127th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence and Nationhood, bringing together the Filipino community and international dignitaries for a festive evening at the historic Klimt Villa. This gathering not only marked an important milestone in Philippine history but also showcased the deep-rooted ties between the Philippines and Austria, encapsulating a spirit of community, patriotism, and mutual respect.

A Night of Elegance and Remembrance

The event was graced by the gracious presence of Her Excellency Evangelina Lourdes Arroyo Bernas, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations, alongside her husband, Mr. John Aloysius Bernas. The evening commenced with Cindy Kurleto officiating as the Master of Ceremonies. In a gesture of solidarity, she invited attendees to observe a moment of silence for the victims and survivors of a tragic shooting incident in Graz, Steiermark, which had claimed 11 lives. This poignant moment highlighted the Philippines’ commitment to standing alongside its Austrian counterparts in times of grief.

Celebrating Historical Significance

Ambassador Bernas delivered an inspiring speech underscoring the significance of June as a momentous month for the Philippines. She drew upon the two defining historical events of June, both of which resonate deeply with the Filipino identity:

Proclamation of Independence (June 12, 1898) and the signing of the UN Charter (June 26, 1945)**: “80 years ago, we signed the UN Charter as founding members of the United Nations.”

The Ambassador articulated a powerful message emphasizing the Philippines’ role in the international community and its responsibility to contribute to global cooperation and mutual understanding. “These two events speak of a fundamental truth. The Philippines was born into a community of nations,” she stated, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to thriving diplomatic relations with Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, and the Slovak Republic.

Acknowledgment from Austrian Officials

Speech contributions from Ambassador Maximilian Hennig, the Chief of Protocol of the Austrian Foreign Ministry, further enriched the evening. He expressed gratitude for the contributions of the Filipino community to Austrian society, noting the richness the Filipino community adds to the cultural landscape of Austria, their contributions across various fields, from sports to science, and recognition of Filipinos as vital healthcare professionals who play essential roles across the nation.

Ambassador Hennig celebrated the achievements of the Filipino community, stating, “You have given us football champions, winners of the European Song Contest, and countless dedicated professionals.” His remarks illustrated the deep appreciation and respect that the Austrian government holds for its Filipino residents, strengthening the bonds between the two nations.

Celebrating Culture through Music

Following the speeches, the evening transitioned into a cultural showcase featuring performances by three gifted Filipino musicians. They enchanted the audience with popular Tagalog songs, as well as an Austrian classic, “Edelweiss,” from the beloved musical, The Sound of Music. The cultural intermingling reinforced the theme of unity through diversity and served as a reminder of the enduring connections shared between the Filipino and Austrian communities.

A Gathering of Hearts and Minds

The event also served as an excellent opportunity for networking among members of the Filipino community, enabling leaders to reconnect with old friends while welcoming newcomers. It exemplified the vibrant social fabric of the Filipino diaspora in Austria, where every individual plays a role in advancing cultural exchange and mutual respect among communities.

The 127th Proclamation of Philippine Independence, celebrated at the Philippine Embassy in Vienna, was not just a commemoration of historical significance but also an affirmation of the contributions of the Filipino community within Austria. The evening underscored themes of unity, patriotism, and hope for a future that thrives on understanding and collaboration. As the evening concluded, guests left with a renewed sense of pride in their heritage and optimism for the future, embodying the spirit of both nations intertwined in prosperity and peace.