Vienna pays tribute to Filipino migrants

As a tribute to the thousands of Filipinos living and

working in Vienna, the city government has finalized a
three weeklong „Das Philippinische Wien“ (The
Filipinos in Vienna) program that would project the
positive image of the Filipinos, not only in Vienna but
also in Austria as a whole.
Dr. Haydar Sari, chief of the Vienna Intercultural
activities and the main initiator of the event told ABS-
CBN news that it is but proper to acknowledge the
great contributions of the Filipinos in the country. “The
Filipinos here are part of the multi-cultural and
international community in Vienna. They are helping a lot for the advancement of the
programs of the city government,” Sary said.

The city official mentioned further that Filipino migrants here are very much
appreciated and respected because of their untiring work in the hospitals. Almost in
every hospital all-over Austria, one finds a Pinoy nurse working here.

“A very important aspect why the Filipinos here are highly esteemed, primarily
because of their untiring work and contribution in the Austrian health system. Their
dedication is indeed remarkable. It is really a gesture of gratitude to the Filipino
migrants, that the city government is staging this project – we want to concretely
show to the Filipinos, how worthful they are in this country,” Sari added.

Council of Filipinos in Austria (CFAA) Chairman Ms. Lorna Titgemeyer who heads
the Filipino planning committee finds the initiative of the city government a big
chance for the Filipinos in order to affirm themselves as ambassadors of goodwill in
their host country.

“This is a very big chance for us, Filipinos I Austria because never has been a
program like this presented to the Austrian people and we find this chance a very,
very challenging endeavour for us,” Titgemeyer said.

The three weeklong program which will be staged on October this year is composed
of Photo Exhibit, featuring the beginnings of the Filipinos in Austria, Musical that
depicts the Austro-Filipino cultural Integration themes, classical concerts which will
featured Filipino artists and singers who finished their training and studies in Vienna.
A symposium on Philippine Integration in the Austrian Society during the last 40
years is also included in the program.

Hector Pascua, ABS-CBN News, Austria

Picture: Dr. Haydar Sari, chief of the Vienna Intercultural Acitivities