Hundreds of Filipinos, Austrian guests, diplomats, and community leaders gathered at the historic Klosterneuburg Monastery to celebrate the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day.
An event that also marked the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Austria.
Organized by the Philippine Embassy in Austria, the celebration highlighted this year’s National Historical Commission of the Philippines theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History). The gathering reflected not only the Philippines’ journey to independence but also the long-standing friendship between the Filipino and Austrian people.
A Friendship that lasted more than half a century.
That friendship, speakers pointed out, goes back even before the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1946. It can be traced to the close friendship between Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal and Austrian educator and scholar Dr. Ferdinand Blumentritt, whose correspondence and mutual respect helped introduce the Philippine reform movement to Europe in the late 19th century.
Giving the occasion added significance was the attendance of Ms. Elke Pickert, granddaughter of Ferdinand Blumentritt. Joining her was Rizal historian Dr. Johann Stockinger, whose work continues to shed light on the enduring friendship between Rizal and Blumentritt and its place in Philippine history.
Filipino-Austrian television personality Cindy Curleto hosted the program, which opened with soprano Missy Zavala singing the national anthems of the Philippines and Austria.
The celebration also recognized the work of Filipino organizations such as Sige!, ENFiD, PACES, Folklorico, and Filipino Cultural Heritage, whose community, cultural, and charitable programs continue to strengthen ties among Filipinos in Austria.
Cultural performances added color to the celebration as Filipino-Austrian singers and dancers took the stage.
Thirteen-year-old Mia Oezetman delighted the audience with a ballet performance, while Patrick Gutensohn earned warm applause for his modern interpretative breakdance number. Their performances reflected a new generation of Filipino-Austrians proudly embracing both their Filipino heritage and Austrian upbringing.
Philippine Ambassador to Austria Evangelina Lourdes Arroyo-Bernas said Filipinos continue to serve as bridges between the two countries through their work, culture, and active participation in Austrian society.
She also encouraged younger generations of Filipino-Austrians to remain connected to their Filipino roots while embracing their place in their adopted country. Ambassador Bernas also took a moment to express sympathy for the victims of the recent earthquake in Mindanao and called on the Filipino community to continue supporting those affected.
Philippine Embassy Cultural Attaché Chryzl Sicat highlighted the growing contributions of Filipinos in Austria.
While many are known for their work in healthcare, she said Filipinos have also built successful careers in education, science and technology, business, tourism, arts and culture, and public service.
Representing Austria’s Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, Political Director Dr. Hannah Liko said the friendship between Rizal and Blumentritt remains one of the strongest symbols of the relationship between the Philippines and Austria. She said their shared commitment to education, mutual understanding, and freedom continues to inspire both nations today.
After the formal program, guests enjoyed Filipino favorites.
Pork barbecue, adobo sliders, and halo-halo with ube ice cream and leche flan, giving everyone an opportunity to celebrate not only Philippine Independence Day but also the shared friendship between the two countries.
As the Philippines and Austria celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations, the gathering at Klosterneuburg Monastery served as a reminder that the bond between the two nations began long before official ties were established. More than a century after Rizal and Blumentritt forged their friendship, their story continues to inspire a partnership built on mutual respect, cultural exchange, and the contributions of generations of Filipinos living in Austria.