Philippine Embassy in Vienna Holds Hope & Endeavor : 80 Years of the Philippines in the United Nations

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December 12 – the Philippine Embassy in Vienna hosted a special gathering “Hope and Endeavor “, the last in a series of events the past year, in celebration of 80 Years of the United Nations, bringing together diplomats, members of the United Nations office in Vienna, and the Filipino community marking both a global milestone and the Philippines’ enduring commitment to multilateralism.

The afternoon opened with a warm welcome from Ambassador Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas, who greeted diplomats and guests from across the UN system. In her welcome remarks, the Ambassador recalled the words of renowned Filipino diplomat and statesman Carlos P. Romulo, reflecting on his vision for the responsible use of atomic energy, a reminder of humanity’s shared duty to ensure that scientific progress serves peace, security, and the common good.

A commemorative book, A Journey of Hope & Endeavor: 80 Years of the Philippines in the United Nations was also presented at the event. The publication traces eight decades of Philippine engagement with the UN since 1945, featuring essays and reflections from active and retired Filipino diplomats, civil servants, and scholars who have helped shape the country’s role on the global stage.

The theme is inspired by Romulo’s historic address at the First Plenary of the United Nations General Assembly in London in January 1946. Then newly independent, the Philippines declared itself “consanguineous and co-eval with the United Nations,” affirming a Filipino stake in the organization rooted in “an identical destiny, shared anxiety, and hope and endeavor.”

Hope and Endeavor speaks to timeless values—aspiration, resilience, and collective striving—that continue to guide nations through both trials and triumphs. It invites reflection not only on history, but on journeys: personal, national, and global.

In the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, the journey is never taken alone. It is marked by solidarity, celebration, and a sense of homecoming. As the first Asian republic and a founding member of the United Nations, the Philippines’ aspirations have long echoed the shared ideals of the family of nations.

The celebration also shone a spotlight on the present, featuring a slideshow honoring Filipinos serving across the various divisions of UN Vienna, many of whom joined the event as guests. Adding to the cultural richness of the evening were prints of selected works by Filipino artists (including some from National artists), curated from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas collection, displayed at the venue.

Artworks included Ang Kuikok’s Yellow Table, Mauro Malang’s Young Trees, Vicente Manansala’s Bayanihan, Manuel Rodriguez’s Nangka, Abdulmari Imao’s Fishes and Sarimanok, and Ricardo Laxamana’s Sa Inang Bayan sa Mithing Kaginhawaan, all which showcase a rich spectrum of artistic voices and approaches, unified by their expressive use of color and their ability to convey emotion, culture, and meaning beyond the surface of the canvas..

Guestswere delighted with raffle prizes, including commemorative stamps celebrating the UN’s 80th anniversary, alongside good food, lively conversations, and a shared sense of pride in the Philippines’ enduring partnership with the United Nations.

An event of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment—celebrating the past, honoring the present, and looking ahead with hope and endeavor.