‘Philippines a nation of contrasts, rapid change’

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines was featured as “a nation of contrasts and rapid change” by a magazine in Austria.

In the Spring 2026 (March-May) issue of Cercle Diplomatique, the Philippines was the magazine’s cover story. The issue was presented during a launch reception held on March 13 at the Meliá Vienna Hotel.

The feature presented the Philippines as a dynamic country shaped by both tradition and transformation. It covers the recent visit of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro to Vienna, the country’s chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and the growing engagement between the Philippines and Austria as the two countries mark 80 years of diplomatic relations.

It also provides readers with an overview of the Philippines’ rich history, economic potential, globally competitive workforce and diverse landscapes and cultural heritage across its 7,641 islands.

The issue also features an interview with Philippine Ambassador to Austria Evangelina Bernas, who discussed the robust relations between the Philippines and Austria and the expanding opportunities for cooperation in diplomacy, trade, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

“Our bilateral ties continue to flourish – through cooperation in multilateral diplomacy, through growing economic engagement, and through the well-established Filipino community in Austria, whose professionalism and dedication contribute meaningfully to Austrian society. Not only have our very best Filipino nurses, IT workers and hotel professionals decided to make their mark in Austria, but we are also proud of the second and third generation of Austrians of Filipino descent who excel in their fields, be it football, opera, ballet, etc.,” Bernas said in her remarks during the launch.

Cercle Diplomatique is an Austrian magazine focused on diplomacy, international affairs, business, culture and lifestyle.

The issue launch brought together members of the diplomatic corps and representatives from Austrian government institutions, international organizations, business, academia, media and cultural institutions.

The collaboration with Cercle Diplomatique forms part of the embassy’s initiatives marking the 80th anniversary of Philippines-Austria diplomatic relations.