Category: People and Places

When Linz speaks about its Filipino community, it does so with unmistakable warmth. At a recent gathering, Mag. Martin Hajart, MBA, Vice Mayor of Linz, captured a sentiment that has been growing across the city: Filipinos in Linz are not only valued — they have become essential to the city’s social and professional heartbeat. Hajart noted that many Filipinos who have settled in Austria understand deeply what it means to live and work here, embracing both opportunity and responsibility. But the appreciation is mutual. “We in Linz are very glad…

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LINZ, Austria — June 13, 2025, marked a historic milestone for the Filipino diaspora in Austria as the community gathered at the prestigious Palais Kaufmännischer Verein to celebrate a dual milestone: the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and the 80th year of bilateral diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Austria. The grand venue was filled to capacity, drawing hundreds of guests from the local Filipino community in Upper Austria, as well as delegates traveling from other federal provinces, including Vienna and Lower Austria. A Unified Platform for All Filipinos The…

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KLOSTERNEUBURG, Lower Austria — Philippine Ambassador to Austria Evangelina Lourdes “Luli” Arroyo-Bernas celebrated the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence on June 12, 2026, by charting the deeply rooted historical links, expanding economic partnerships, and growing cultural influence shared between the Philippines and Austria. Speaking before members of the diplomatic community and Filipino diaspora leaders at the historic gardens of Stift Klosterneuburg, Ambassador Arroyo-Bernas reflected on a relationship that stretches back centuries, mapping its path from imperial connection to modern labor and cultural pacts. Deep Roots and Historical Guardianship Ambassador Arroyo-Bernas…

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VIENNA, AUSTRIA — June 9, 2026 — The Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES) is proud to announce the upcoming 8th annual Floral Offering at the historic Catalpa Tree in Rathaus Park. Scheduled for Thursday, 11 June 2026, at 16:30, this poignant gathering marks the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, providing a solemn and vibrant platform for historical reflection, cultural pride, and community solidarity in the heart of Vienna. The choice of venue holds deep significance. The majestic Catalpa Tree in Vienna’s Rathaus Park stands as…

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VIENNA, AUSTRIA — The Filipino diaspora in Austria came together in a vibrant display of patriotism, culture, and community spirit on June 5, 2026, celebrating the 128th Philippine Independence Day at the prestigious Vienna Marriott Hotel. Organized by the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria (CFAA), the glamorous gala brought together community leaders, diplomats, and guests to honor the Philippines’ rich history while reinforcing the community’s commitment to philanthropy back home. A Vision of Freedom, Future, and History The evening’s proceedings were officially opened by CFAA Chairman Elmer Blanco, who…

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In 2026, the Philippines celebrate the 128th anniversary of their independence from Spain. However, the historical reference points between the two countries go back much further. The history of relations between Austria and the Philippines is not shaped by conflict; from the very beginning, friendly ties existed between the two countries. The discovery of the Philippines in European history took place on March 16, 1521, when the Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan, sailing on behalf of the Spanish Crown during the reign of a Habsburg, arrived on the islands. As Magellan…

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VIENNA, Austria — While the official calendar marks the 128th Philippine Independence Day on June 12, the Filipino community in Vienna is not waiting. Today, June 5, 2026, the diaspora is gathering for a spectacular early celebration that transforms a corner of Austria into a vibrant showcase of Filipino culture, resilience, and unity. A Night of Culture and Community Organized by the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria (CFAA), under the dedicated leadership of its Chairman, Elmer Blanco, the gala is a masterclass in community organizing. Months of coordination, dance…

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A beautiful evening of international solidarity, music, and shared faith brought the month of Mary to a memorable close. The Herz Jesu Parish community experienced an extraordinary outpouring of fellowship and devotion during the concluding prayer service for this year’s Maiandacht (May Devotions). Attended by a massive crowd of parishioners and visitors, the evening served as a profound celebration of hope, underscored by the soulful cultural and spiritual contributions of the parish’s Filipino community. A Focus on Mary, Mother of Hope The central theme of the devotion focused on Mary…

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The Philippine Embassy in Austria warmly invites the public to the lecture “1887: Tracing Rizal’s Footsteps in Vienna”, to be delivered by historian Dr. Johann Stockinger, one of the leading researchers on José Rizal’s European journeys. This special event revisits the national hero’s 1887 visit to Vienna—an encounter with the city’s intellectual life, medical institutions, and cultural circles that shaped his worldview and deepened his engagement with European reformist thought. Event Details Part of a Milestone Celebration The lecture forms part of the Embassy’s commemorative program for the 80th Anniversary…

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