Colorful Cultural Show and Induction Ball of the Igorots in Vienna

The Igorot Austria Cordillera clad in their colorful ethnic attire exhibited each one’s skillful dance steps identical of all the different provinces of Cordillera, as they  proudly presented a wide array of traditional, colorful and meaningful Igorot rituals, dances and ceremonies during its cultural Night and InductionProgram held in Vienna’s 15th District.

Both Filipino and Austrian audience were so fascinated by  the colorful dresses in beautiful hand woven vests, G-strings and skirts, as they  danced to the melodic sounds of the gongs, gansa and solibao.

Both Austrians and Filipinos in the audience were delighted with their uniquepresentation, having shown their rich Igorot culture.

Leonida Ostermayer-Lunag, Chairman  of the Igorot  Austria Cordillera  is likewise very proud to contend that IGO-Austria’s solidarity is intact.

“We are starting this organization  to promote the cultural values and traditions of the entire Cordillera region,  and to promulgate its ancestral heritage bestowed to our forefathers. It is high time to talk more about us, about the revolution in the lifestyle of an Igorot, parallel to civilization,” Ostermayer Lunag said.

“May this occasion inspire the officers and members of the Igorot Austria Cordillera to work together in goodwill to promote their common objectives, to promote unity and camaraderie with th eother  Filipino community in Vienna and to always reflect in their endeavors the best of the  Filipino people,” Ambassador Lourdes Yparraguirre said in her message.

“Their dances and rituals are very much in harmony with nature. I do appreciate the beauty and uniqueness  of their  Igorot culture and identity although they are here in Austria,” an Austrian guest commented.

Deputy Minister and Consul General Charlie Manangan of the Philippine Embassy here commended that Igorots in Austria for preserving their identity, thus remain true to their rich cultural roots, a heritage that emphasizes caring, resilience, creativity, dedication to civic duty and profound sense  of community.

During the event Igorot Austria Cordillera handed over two  books about the culture of the Igorots to the Philippine Embassy Library in Vienna.