Category: People and Places

Our day began early in Lido di Camaiore with a quick breakfast before setting out on our much-anticipated day tour to Cinque Terre. The morning air was fresh, and the excitement among our group was contagious. After breakfast, we boarded the bus, and our friendly tour guide led us toward La Spezia, sharing bits of history and fun facts about the region along the way. From La Spezia, we caught the train to Vernazza, one of the most picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. The short ride offered stunning views of…

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On October 19, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., the Parish of Leopoldau joyfully celebrated World Church Sunday with a vibrant and heartfelt Mass. The celebration, filled with music, prayer, and cultural unity, reflected the true spirit of the Universal Church. It was actively organized by the parish’s youth group and youth leaders, who not only animated the liturgy but also engaged the community through a small fundraising initiative. At the end of the service, they offered fair trade chocolate pralines and “Happy Blue Chips” for sale. The proceeds from this meaningful…

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Vienna, October 2025 — In a noteworthy showing of Filipino cinema on the global stage, two films by acclaimed auteur Lav Diaz are part of this year’s Viennale festival lineup, drawing attention to themes of colonial legacy, personal trauma, and historical reckoning. Films in Focus Magalhães (Magellan)Diaz’s latest epic, Magalhães, is a sweeping historical drama and international co-production (Portugal, Spain, France, Philippines, Taiwan).At about 160 minutes, the film probes the roots of colonial violence by retracing the 16th-century expedition of Ferdinand Magellan—including his invasion of Cebu and the consequences for…

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On Sunday, October 19, 2025, the Catholic Church around the world celebrates World Mission Sunday, a day dedicated to prayer and support for missionary work. In Austria, this year’s celebration takes on a special focus — South Sudan, one of the poorest nations in Africa. Collections from Sunday Masses and related activities across the country will go to support Missio Austria’s ongoing projects in the region. In Vienna’s Parish of Leopoldau (21st District), Leopoldauer Platz 77A, the observance will be marked with an extra touch of international solidarity and music.…

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Šamorín, Slovakia | 25 September 2025 — The Philippine Embassy in Vienna reports that they promoted ethical recruitment practices for skilled Filipino drivers and transport professionals together with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Vienna during the CESMAD Road Transport Conference held on 25 September 2025 in Šamorín, Slovakia. According to CESMAD Slovakia, the country faces a shortage of around 16,000 drivers in its transport sector. Filipino drivers are increasingly in demand due to their strong technical skills, professionalism, and proficiency in English. At the conference, the Philippine delegation set up…

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On October 5, 2025, at Hala Sportowa OSiR Praga Południe in Warsaw, Filipino basketball teams from across Europe gathered for a day of competition, camaraderie, and celebration of Filipino pride. Before the games began, organizers reminded all participants of the tournament’s deeper purpose: “Play with heart, fight with courage, and never forget that true victory is not only in winning but in giving your best and glorifying God in everything you do. Let’s make this tournament a showcase of teamwork, discipline, and faith. May this be a journey of growth,…

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October 5, 2025 – Vienna, Austria – The Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy in Wienerfeld, 1100 Vienna, was filled with faith and festivity on Sunday, October 5, 2025, as the Filipino community came together to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag. The annual celebration, one of the most cherished Marian devotions among Filipinos, drew devotees from across Austria to honor the Blessed Mother, known affectionately as Apo Baket. The celebration began with a solemn procession around the church, featuring the image of Our Lady of Manaoag carried…

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VIENNA, Austria — The Association of Pangasinenses in Austria has launched preparations for the Feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Manaoag with a nine-day novena that began on September 26, 2025, at the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy in Wienerfeld, 1010 Vienna. Daily novena prayers and masses are drawing Filipino devotees from Vienna and nearby regions. The novena will end on Sunday, October 5, coinciding with the main day of the feast. Organizers said the devotion continues to be a vital link for Pangasinenses abroad, noting that the image…

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Vienna, Austria — September 30, 2025 – The Association of Pangasinenses in Austria has begun preparations for the Feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Manaoag with a nine-day novena that started on September 26, 2025. The novena prayers and masses are being held daily at the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy in Wienerfeld, 1010 Vienna, drawing a steady stream of devotees. The novena will conclude on Sunday, October 5, 2025, which marks the main day of the feast. Organizers say the devotion has already attracted Filipinos not only from…

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