Category: People and Places

The Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra (MSJO) has once again made the Philippines proud by clinching the top honors at not just one, but two prestigious international music competitions in Europe. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the talent, dedication, and hard work of these young musicians, as well as the exceptional leadership of their conductor Jeffrey Solares, and trainers Sara Maria Gonzales and Arnold Josue. The MSJO’s European Concert Tour, which kicked off on June 29, saw the orchestra mesmerizing audiences in Budapest, Salzburg, Bratislava, and Vienna with their…

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In a mesmerizing display of talent and musical prowess, the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra recently staged a remarkable concert at the prestigious Muth in Vienna’s 2nd district. The concert, which was attended by a diverse audience including Filipino guests and members of the Philippine Embassy staff led by Ambassador Evangelina Arroyo Bernas, showcased the exceptional skills of these young and talented musicians. The evening began with a captivating performance of classical pieces that left the audience spellbound. The orchestra’s flawless execution and heartfelt interpretation of each composition demonstrated their dedication…

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Hilda Koschier, the head of nursing management of WIE DAHAM Töllergarten (Pflegedirektorin), and Daniel Garces, administrator of WIE DAHAM Donaustadt and Töllergarten, (Verwaltungsleitung), both Austrians with Filipino backgrounds, are not only well-loved and respected, but they are also actively involving the Filipino community in Vienna in the activities of the old folk home. On June 21, 2024 Hilda and Daniel hosted their annual Sommerfest, where they invited guests to celebrate and enjoy the day. What set this event apart was their decision to engage Filipino groups to entertain the residents.…

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Vienna, Austria – A Kundiman serenade by Filipino Soprano, Ms. Erin Silangil, and generous portions of halo-halo topped with ube ice cream and leche flan were among the highlights of the Philippine Embassy’s celebration of the 126th Anniversary of Philippine Independence at the chamber garden of the Lower Belvedere Museum on 12 June 2024. Distinguished guests from the Austrian government, diplomatic missions, international organizations, and Filipino community leaders in Austria enjoyed the open-air celebration. Ambassador Maximilian Hennig, Chief of Protocol of the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs,…

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Filipinos in Austria celebrated the 126th Philippine Independence Day with a range of activities highlighting their rich cultural heritage and national pride. The celebration provided a platform for the Filipino community in Austria to come together, fostering a sense of unity and cultural connection while commemorating the historic day when the Philippines declared its independence from Spanish rule on June 12, 1898. Organized by the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria (CFAA) in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy, the event took place on June 15, 2024, at the prestigious Marriott…

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On the occasion of the 126th Philippine Independence Day Celebration, the Philippine-Austrian Cultural Society (PACES) organized a significant event at the Vienna City Capitol Garden: the Floral Offering Ceremony of the Catalpa Tree. This ceremony symbolizes the deep and enduring bond between the Philippines and Austria, highlighting the strong relationships between the two countries. The Catalpa Tree, first planted in 1998 during the Philippine Centennial Anniversary of Independence, holds special significance in the Viennese City Hall Garden. Its trumpet-shaped flowers serve as a representation of the promising future of Philippine-Austrian…

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The Philippine Austrian Cultural Society (PACES), led by President Dr. Jane Abaya, will be organizing a floral offering ceremony at the Vienna City Hall Garden in Vienna, Austria, on June 12, 2024. This event aims to commemorate the strong and enduring relationship between the Philippines and Austria. In 1998, during the Philippine Centennial Anniversary of Independence, a Catalpa Tree was planted in the eastern section of the Vienna City Hall Garden. The tree’s trumpet-shaped flowers symbolize the promising future of Philippine-Austrian relations for the next century. We extend a warm…

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Loida Lewis, a mother, successful businesswoman, and widow of the late CEO Reginald Lewis of TLC Beatrice International Holdings Inc., has recently published a book titled “Why Should Guys Have All The Fun?” This book delves into her personal journey, detailing her relationship with Reginald Lewis and her rise to becoming the CEO of TLC Beatrice following his passing. On June 9, 2024, Ms. Lewis presented her book at a signing event at the Thalia Bookstore in Vienna’s 3rd District. During the book signing event, the mother of two daughters…

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The city of Vienna was treated on June 5, 2024, to a spectacular painting exhibition that showcased the incredible talent of Filipino painters Harold Khan and Jessielaine Punongbayan. The exhibition’s theme, “Exploring the Canvas of Cultural Diversity,” captured the essence of their work, which beautifully combines traditional Filipino design with modern expressions. Harold Khan, known for his bold and vibrant use of colors, takes viewers on a journey through time with his pieces. The influence of vintage cinema billboards is evident in his work, creating a fascinating dialogue between the…

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