Category: People and Places

Imusicapella, a renowned choir group from Imus, Cavite, Philippines, achieved a remarkable victory at the 29th Béla Bartók International Choir Competition, held in Hungary in July 2024. This prestigious event, celebrated for its focus on contemporary choral music and named after the famous Hungarian composer Béla Bartók, attracts top-tier choral groups worldwide. Under the skilled direction of conductor Tristan Ignacio, Imusicapella demonstrated their exceptional talent and versatility by delivering powerful performances that resonated with both the judges and the audience. Their repertoire featured a blend of Filipino folk songs and…

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In Austria, a unique and vibrant tradition takes centre stage every September. For the Bicolanos and other devotees residing in the country, this month holds a special significance as they come together to celebrate the beloved patroness of Bicol, whom they affectionately refer to as Ina, or Mother, the revered Lady of Peñafrancia. The Peñafrancia festival has carved out a special place in the hearts of the Bicolanos living in Vienna. It serves as a unifying force that strengthens their bonds and deepens their sense of community. This year marks…

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by Hector Pascua, Vienna, August 4, 2024 In a resounding victory that has set a new standard for Philippine sports, Carlos Yulo captured Olympic gold, etching his name in the annals of history as one of the greatest Filipino athletes ever. His achievement is not merely a triumph of personal perseverance and skill; it is a powerful symbol of hope, pride, and the limitless potential of Filipino talent on the world stage. Yulo’s journey to Olympic glory was anything but easy. His ascent in gymnastics has been marked by relentless…

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Linz, Austria – July 29, 2024 – In a significant milestone for international healthcare collaboration, 25 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) arrived in Vienna on July 23, ready to begin their professional journey in Wels, Austria. Welcomed warmly by their employer, an esteemed hospital in Upper Austria, these nurses bring dedication and expertise, poised to make substantial contributions to the Austrian healthcare system and society. Before their deployment, the nurses underwent rigorous preparation, including an 8-month intensive German language course in the Philippines, culminating in a German language examination. This meticulous…

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The vibrant and rich culture of the Philippines was on full display as the Philippine Embassy in Vienna joined the Filipino community at the 2024 Barrio Fiesta, a celebration of culture, heritage, arts, and gastronomy organized by the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria (CFAA). The event, held on July 20, 2024, brought together approximately 2,000 attendees, including Filipinos from various regions of Austria, neighboring countries, and local Austrian friends. Ambassador Evangelina A. Bernas, in her address at the festivities, emphasized the invaluable contributions of the united Filipino community in…

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The harmonious melodies of the Lasallian Youth Orchestra (LYO) from De La Salle University (DLSU) in Manila echoed through the halls of Bratislava, Slovakia, as they claimed the gold medal at the prestigious 9th International Youth Music Festival II. With a dazzling performance that captivated the audience and judges alike, the LYO showcased their talent and passion for music on a global stage. On 24th July 2024, the LYO mesmerized the crowd with a stellar performance that earned them a remarkable score of 92 points, securing their well-deserved victory. Their…

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The Amalfi Coast, with its breathtaking cliffs, charming towns, and crystal-clear waters, has always been one of the dream destination for our family. Thus, from our hotel in Sorrent, we decided to embark on a bus trip to this Italian paradise. Our journey was filled with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable moments, especially when we spent a few hours swimming at the beach. Our adventure began early in the morning as we boarded the bus. The anticipation was palpable as we settled into our seats. We were all buzzing with excitement.…

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Napoli, a city rich in history and bursting with vibrant culture, has always been a destination on my travel bucket list. Known for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Napoli offers an unforgettable experience. One of the best ways to explore this dynamic city is through a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour, which allows visitors to see the most iconic sites at their own pace. Starting the Journey Our adventure began at Piazza Municipio, a bustling square in the heart of Napoli. We boarded in the bright red double-decker…

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July 21, 2024 – Our tour group (including my family) made its way to Mount Vesuvius, the infamous volcano that brought ancient Pompeii to its knees. The visit to this iconic site, culminating in a trek up to the crater, was an adventure that combined natural beauty, historical intrigue, and personal challenge. This article recounts our experiences from the initial steps on the trail to the awe-inspiring view from the summit. The Journey Begins Arrival and First Impressions As we approached Mount Vesuvius, the looming presence of the volcano was…

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