The Philippine Embassy in Vienna marked the 127th Philippine Independence Day at the historic Klimt Villa.
The event, themed “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History), brought together dignitaries, international guests, and members of the Filipino and Austrian communities to commemorate Philippine sovereignty and strengthen diplomatic ties.
Filipino-Austrian personality Cindy Kurleto hosted the evening.
Graced by the presence of representatives from China, Japan, Colombia, Venezuela, the United Kingdom, and other nations.
The program opened with a moving performance by Missy Zavala, who sang both the Philippine and Austrian national anthems.
In a solemn moment of solidarity, the Filipino community joined Austrians in mourning the recent tragedy in Graz, paying respects to the lives lost and showing heartfelt support during this time of grief.
Her Excellency Luli Arroyo-Bernas, Philippine Ambassador to Austria, Croatia, Slovakia, and Slovenia, and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna, delivered her keynote address.
She emphasized the deepening bilateral relations between the Philippines and Austria, particularly in light of the upcoming 80th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Ambassador Arroyo-Bernas highlighted the contributions of Filipinos to Austrian society in various fields, from healthcare to academia.
Ambassador Mag. Maximilian Hennig, Chief of Protocol of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, responded with gratitude.
He warmly thanked the Filipino community for their gesture of empathy and praised the talents and professionalism of Filipinos in Austria. “You have given us Football Champions*, You have given us winners of the European song contest** (Eurovision), You have given us the international civil servants you speak about. We have scientist here, engineers, university professors, thousands of medical professionals who takes care of the most vulnerable people in our society ” he said with a smile, recognizing the invaluable role Filipinos play in Austrian life. He thanks the Philippine Embassy for their hard work and that he was privilaged to be part of the celebration.
* David Alaba
** Johannes Pietsch
The musical program featured two of the Philippines’ rising classical artists based in Vienna.
Soprano Missy Zavala, a student at the Friedrich Gulda Conservatory and member of Enchoir Vienna, gave a stirring rendition of “Ilang-Ilang” by National Artist Felipe Padilla de Leon. She was followed by award-winning cellist Damodar Das Castillo, an incoming student at MUK in Salzburg, who performed “Cavatina” by Nicanor Abelardo. Accompanied by pianist Kei Endo, the duo concluded their set with the beloved “Edelweiss” sung in German, bridging cultures through music.
Guests were invited to view the special exhibit “Filipinos in UN Vienna,” spotlighting the achievements of Filipino professionals serving the global community.
Attendees also enjoyed guided tours of the Klimt Villa, immersing themselves in Austrian art and history.
The celebration concluded with a festive mingling session where Filipino and Austrian culinary delights were shared.
Classic Filipino dishes such as barbecue and siomai were served alongside local Austrian finger foods. The ever-popular halo-halo, a colorful Filipino dessert, proved to be a refreshing favorite among all guests.
