12 June 2025, VIENNA - The Philippines marked its 127th Independence Day with a tribute to the Filipino international civil servants, honoring current and former Filipino staff of the United Nations and other international organizations in Vienna through a special exhibit titled, “Filipinos in UN Vienna: 80 years of Dedication to Multilateralism.” The reception highlighted the country’s eight decades of enduring contribution to diplomacy and multilateral cooperation and was held at the iconic Klimt Villa, the last studio of artist Gustav Klimt. 

In her welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Austria H.E. Evangelina A. Bernas paid tribute to the Filipino professionals who have helped shape international policymaking at the United Nations over the past eight decades. “As the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, allow me to honor the Filipinos who have lent their talent to the UN and other international organizations in Vienna in various capacities, and who have contributed to the advancement of multilateralism and global governance over the past decades,” said Ambassador Bernas.  

Guest of Honor Ambassador Maximillian Hennig, Chief of Protocol of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, expressed Austria’s deep appreciation for the Filipino community’s contributions to Austrian society. “Thank you for your hospitality…for giving us football champions (David Alaba), European Song Contest winners (Johannes “JJ” Pietsch) and Filipino workers–international civil servants, scientists, university professors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and many thousands of carers and medical professionals who have taken care of the most vulnerable of our society,” he added.  

The celebration was attended by around 300 members of the diplomatic corps, business community, Austrian officials, and Filipino community leaders from Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, and Slovakia. 

Guests were treated to a moving musical performance by Ms. Maria Isabel Zavala and Mr. Damodar Das Castillo, two of the Philippines' youngest rising musical talents in Vienna. The two artists performed Filipino classics “Ilang-Ilang” and “Cavatina” by Nicanor Abelardo. The repertoire concluded with “Edelweiss” sung in German and which was met with warm applause. 

Guests were also provided with Filipino-crafted buri fans made in Quiapo, Manila, and Cebu-based Pili&Pino products of ube pancake mix and various jams. They were also treated to a selection of Filipino dishes including barbecue, siomai, and halo-halo.

The event stood as a vibrant celebration of national pride, international solidarity, and the lasting legacy of Filipino excellence in the service of the global community. END.

Honorees and guests visit the exhibit.

The exhibit, “Filipinos in the UN Vienna: 80 Years of Dedication to Multilateralism”. 

Ambassador Luli A. Bernas, Mr. Luigi Bernas, and Consul General Velasco receive guests at the diplomatic reception on 12 June at the Klimt Villa in Vienna. 

Guests during the program of the diplomatic reception for the 127th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood at the Klimt Villa. 

Ambassador Luli A. Bernas and Ambassador Maximilian Hennig deliver their remarks at the diplomatic reception at the Klimt Villa. 

Ms. Maria Isabel Zavala (soprano) and Mr. Damodar Das Castillo (cellist) during the music program of the diplomatic reception. 

Guests enjoy halo-halo during the diplomatic reception.