Category: People and Places

Philippine Foreign Minister Maria Theresa Lazaro will attend this year’s Vienna Opera Ball as a guest in the lodge rented by Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl‑Reisinger. The visit highlights the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Austria and the Philippines and recalls a historic appearance by former Philippine First Lady Imelda Marcos nearly five decades ago. Before the ball on Thursday evening, Meinl‑Reisinger and Lazaro are scheduled to meet representatives of the Philippine community at the Foreign Ministry. According to the ministry, the invitation is intended as a “special sign…

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Our journey through Morocco began in the vibrant coastal city of Agadir, where an Austrian group—full of curiosity and good spirits—set off to explore the heart of this remarkable country. We were in excellent hands throughout the entire trip: guided by a highly knowledgeable and engaging tour guide, and supported by three wonderful Moroccan companions—our skilled bus driver, his ever‑helpful assistant, and a dedicated tour organizer who ensured every day ran smoothly. From Agadir, our route led us across changing landscapes and centuries of history. We traveled through Quarzazat and…

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Vienna, Austria — The Ateneo School of Government, in partnership with the Migrant Workers Office – Vienna, invites overseas Filipinos and their families to attend a FREE Online Information Session for the ALSE OF-LIFE Program (Ateneo Leadership, Social Entrepreneurship, and Financial Literacy for Overseas Filipinos). The ALSE OF-LIFE Program is a 6-month executive education certificate course designed to equip participants with essential skills in leadership development, financial literacy, and social entrepreneurship—empowering them to become changemakers in their communities and beyond. The information session will provide an overview of the program,…

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Vienna, 30 January 2026 — Diplomats, religious leaders, scholars, and civil society representatives gathered at the Vienna International Centre on 30 January 2026 for a high-level conference marking the United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW). Organized by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) in partnership with the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV), the Coalition of Faith-Based Organizations, Youth and Students for Peace (YSP), and the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), the conference focused on the theme “The Relevance of Religions for a Peaceful World Order.” Among the distinguished…

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The Diocese of Imus, Cavite, with profound sorrow, announces the passing of Rev. Fr. Jose “Joey” S. Demoy, Parish Priest of Ang Mabuting Pastol Parish, Palapala, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite. Fr. Demoy returned to the loving embrace of the Father on January 30, 2026. Fr. Demoy was a devoted priest whose ministry extended far beyond the borders of Cavite. He served for many years as Chaplain of the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy (FCC) in Vienna, Austria, where he became a spiritual father to thousands of Filipino migrants. His pastoral leadership, compassion,…

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Philippine Embassy Launches Digital Billboard Hunt with Prizes Up for Grabs Vienna’s bustling city center is getting a tropical splash of color this January as two of the Philippines’ most iconic destinations—El Nido, Palawan and Maasin River, Siargao—appear on large digital billboards across the capital. From 10 to 31 January, residents and visitors in Vienna can catch a glimpse of these world‑renowned landscapes right in the heart of Europe. The initiative, launched by the Philippine Embassy in Austria, aims to spark curiosity, celebrate Filipino tourism, and invite the public to…

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Pope Leo XIV has appointed Fr. Cyril “Jojo” Villareal, a priest of the Archdiocese of Capiz, as the new Bishop of Kalibo. The announcement was made on Saturday, January 24, marking a new chapter of leadership for the Diocese of Kalibo. Fr. Villareal, 51, succeeds Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc, who retired in June 2025 after nearly fourteen years of dedicated pastoral service to the diocese. Born in March 1974, Bishop-elect Villareal pursued his philosophical studies at St. Pius X Seminary in Roxas City and completed his theological formation at the…

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Vienna, January 2026 — SK Rapid Wien’s U19 team capped a strong international showing by finishing third at the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Cup, held this January and featuring elite youth sides from across Europe. The young Rapids delivered a series of disciplined and energetic performances throughout the tournament, showcasing the club’s renowned youth development system. After navigating a competitive group stage and rebounding from a narrow semifinal setback, SK Rapid U19 closed the campaign with a convincing victory in the third-place playoff to secure a spot on the podium. One of…

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The Philippines made a dynamic and colorful appearance at the Ferien Messe 2026, Austria’s largest and most influential trade fair for holidays, travel, and leisure. The event was held from 15 to 18 January 2026 at Halle C, Messe Wien, drawing thousands of travel enthusiasts, industry professionals, and international exhibitors. Located at Stand 0626, the Philippine booth welcomed a steady stream of curious and enthusiastic visitors eager to discover the country’s world‑renowned beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse adventure offerings. Guests explored interactive displays, destination highlights, and travel information showcasing…

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