A Weekend for the Filipinos in Vienna
The weekend was set to celebrate Filipino culture, and the air was filled with excitement, the scent of delicious food, and the melodic hum of live music.
Throughout the day, visitors explored a vibrant array of Filipino food stalls, where the aroma of adobo, lechon, and lumpia wafted through the air.
Artisans showcased fashionable clothing and accessories
Adding a touch of elegance to the festival grounds. Each stall was a testament to Filipino craftsmanship, from intricate handcrafted bracelets by Hiyas to colorful and chic designs by Ligaya Apparel.
One of the festival’s highlights was the exclusive art exhibition curated by the group sige!
Inside a spacious, elegantly decorated hall, an exquisite collection of art pieces captured the essence of Filipino culture and contemporary life. From brass sculptures to abstract paintings, the exhibition was a visual feast that attracted art lovers and curious onlookers alike.
In addition to the visual arts, the festival offered enriching panel discussions and workshops
Attendees gathered to hear insightful talks about remittances and their impact on both local and global communities. Another engaging panel explored the evolving landscape of LGBTQ films in the Philippines, shedding light on stories that resonate with many. The festival’s stage talks covered a range of topics, from performing arts to entrepreneurship and the diaspora experience. Experts and enthusiasts shared their knowledge and experiences, sparking lively discussions and offering valuable insights into these diverse fields.
Mark Agpas and his band, 5cinco, kicked off the festival’s musical festivities
With their signature flair, they delved into a set of Filipino rock & roll classics, their electric guitars echoing the timeless rhythms of bands like Eraserheads and Rivermaya. The crowd, a sea of fans both young and old, danced and sang along with gusto. Each note seemed to paint the sky with memories of the golden days of OPM (Original Pilipino Music).
The Vincent Bueno
Known for his infectious humor and charismatic stage presence, Bueno mixed stand-up comedy with a high-energy song and dance number that had everyone in stitches. His performance was a whirlwind of laughter and rhythm, a perfect bridge between the rock & roll nostalgia and the festival’s diverse offerings.
The festival had lived up to its promise of celebrating the richness of Filipino culture
With every note played, every joke cracked, every art piece admired, and every traditional dance performed, the spirit of the Philippines had been beautifully represented. It was a festival not just of celebration, but of community, culture, and connection—a weekend to remember for all who attended.