In a world that sometimes feels more divided than ever, the power of unity and collective effort in preserving cultural heritage shines brightly. This is where “cultural bayanihan” comes into play, an idea that combines the richness of culture with the Filipino spirit of communal unity and cooperation.
Celebrating Filipino Heritage
KUBŌ, which stands for KULTUR BAYANIHAN ŌSTERREICH, is a three-day extravaganza that showcases a vibrant display of Filipino culture. From the moment I stepped into the event venue, I could sense the pulsating energy of cultural celebration.
It was more than just an event; it was an immersion into the heart and soul of the Philippines. This remarkable gathering celebrated the Filipino experience through beautiful art, engaging workshops, thought-provoking panel discussions, and an enchanting evening program. What made this event truly special was its inspiration drawn from the Filipino spirit of communal unity known as bayanihan, where people join forces to lift and support each other towards a shared objective.
KUBŌ was born from the desire of young people in Austria to be seen, heard, and understood as authentic storytellers of both their Filipino heritage and their European home.
The Mosaic of Filipino Culture
Its aim is to showcase every facet of Filipino culture, from language to art, music to cuisine, tradition to social norms – every element was given its rightful place.
As I strolled through the event grounds, I was immediately transported back to the Philippines. It was heartwarming to see many second-generation Filipino visitors who still practice traditional Filipino values like pagmamano. There was also a vibrant display of traditional clothing from various regions of the Philippines that added an extra layer of cultural richness.
Moreover, art exhibitions featured masterpieces by local Filipino artists, with each canvas telling a unique story about the Evolving Filipino Heritage, which was the event’s central theme.
A Feast for the Senses
For food enthusiasts like me, KUBŌ was also a culinary paradise. The event offered a delightful array of Filipino dishes, from the savory lechon paksiw to the sweet halo-halo and the comforting ube cake with leche flan.
As I savored each bite, I realized that the Filipino cuisine is not just about flavors; it’s a journey into the heart of a culture, a reflection of history and tradition on a plate.
Cultural Exchange and Understanding
One of the core missions of KUBŌ was to foster cultural exchange and understanding. The event organizers meticulously curated a program that brought together the many threads that make up the colorful life of a Filipino.
It was not just about showcasing the culture; it was about inviting everyone to become a part of it.
Being part of the exhibition
Speaking of being part of it, I had the honor to exhibit my artwork in KUBŌ.
As an expat living far from my Filipino roots, this opportunity held a special place in my heart. In line with the theme, I created prints that celebrated Filipino Games, aiming to honor not only my childhood memories but also to evoke a sense of nostalgia shared by the Filipino diaspora.
My goal was to display an array of games that I used to play when I was a child, bridging the gap between my past and present, and connecting with fellow Filipinos who share a similar longing for the familiar rhythms of home.
Conclusion: Embracing Cultural Bayanihan
As I went home, I carried with me a deeper appreciation for the concept of cultural bayanihan. It’s a good reminder that when we come together as a community, we can achieve incredible things.
KUBŌ is a testament that the beauty of the Filipino culture is worth sharing to the world. Let it be an inspiration for us all that celebrating, preserving, and sharing our cultural heritage, unites us in the beauty of diversity.
