WORK in AUSTRIA goes to Geeks On A Beach in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!?


WORK in AUSTRIA, part of the Austrian Business Agency (ABA), offers free services designed to help skilled workers transition smoothly into their new roles in Austria. Additionally, the Philippines recently opened a Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Vienna to provide on-the-ground support for Filipinos already working in Austria or planning to relocate.

WORK in AUSTRIA’s support services include free counseling on living and working in Austria, job search assistance through platforms like the new ‘Talent Hub,’ help with immigration procedures for individuals and their families, and information programs to prepare for the move to Austria.


WORK in AUSTRIA showcases career opportunities and free services for skilled workers at the Geeks On A Beach in the Philippines

WORK in AUSTRIA, a department of the Austrian Business Agency (ABA), will participate in the Geeks On A Beach (GOAB) conference in Cebu, Philippines. The conference will provide detailed information about the career landscape in Austria and showcase the comprehensive range of free services available to skilled workers on their path to employment in Austria.

“Austria offers international skilled workers new perspectives and exciting career opportunities in the heart of Europe. Thanks to its stable economy, high standard of living, and attractive working conditions, Austria is one of the most sought-after labor markets in Europe,” said Raphael Rey Bacolod, Director of Indonesia and Philippines, WORK in AUSTRIA.

Geeks On A Beach is the Philippines’ premier international tech startup conference. It gathers hundreds of entrepreneurs, investors, innovators, and notable figures from the country’s startup ecosystem. This year’s GOAB will occur at JPark Island Resort Hotel in Mactan, Cebu. It is organized by geeksPH in collaboration with the Philippines Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT).

Austrian-Philippine Ties

Austria and the Philippines share a long history of collaboration, with more than 30,000 Filipinos already calling Austria home. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2023 between the two nations further solidified this close relationship. The agreement seeks to enhance cooperation in recruiting and supporting vital and skilled workers from the Philippines. The Philippines is the first country to enter such an agreement with Austria.

“Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage, Austria offers numerous incentives for skilled workers. With a robust economy, Austria provides a healthy work-life balance, comprehensive social security, and high-quality healthcare, all within a relatively affordable cost of living,” said Bacolod.

“For Filipino professionals, especially in IT, engineering, healthcare, and nursing sectors, Austria presents a wealth of job opportunities. As Austrian companies strive to combat the country’s growing shortage of skilled workers, they are increasingly looking to the global market to fill key positions,” added the Director of Indonesia and Philippines at WORK in AUSTRIA.

In May 2024, Austria and the Philippines celebrated Philippine-Austrian Friendship Week with events organized by the Philippine Embassy in Austria, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy (BMAW), the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ), and the ABA. These events aimed to strengthen cultural and economic ties between the two countries, focusing on skilled labor.

Support on the way to Austria

WORK in AUSTRIA, part of the Austrian Business Agency (ABA), offers free services designed to help skilled workers transition smoothly into their new roles in Austria. Additionally, the Philippines recently opened a Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Vienna to provide on-the-ground support for Filipinos already working in Austria or planning to relocate.

WORK in AUSTRIA’s support services include free counseling on living and working in Austria, job search assistance through platforms like the new ‘Talent Hub,’ help with immigration procedures for individuals and their families, and information programs to prepare for the move to Austria.

These efforts are designed to make the transition to living and working in Austria as seamless as possible for international professionals. For more information on living and working in Austria, visit www.workinaustria.com.

About the Austrian Business Agency (ABA)

The Austrian Business Agency (ABA) is a subsidiary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy (BMAW). It promotes Austria as an attractive destination for international companies, skilled workers, and film producers. Through its three business divisions—INVEST in AUSTRIA, WORK in AUSTRIA, and FILM in AUSTRIA—the ABA provides free advisory services on establishing businesses, accessing the labor market, and producing films in Austria.

For further details, visit: www.aba.gv.at

Mambajao boosts tourism with first emergency response command center already equipped with US Next Generation Advanced 911 technology

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Camiguin Island -- one of the country’s most desired tourist destinations – is taking big steps to make itself safe, resilient and world-class in its emergency response and disaster-preparedness.

Mambajao, the provincial capital, has launched its own next-generation advanced 911 emergency response center that will provide its citizens and tourists the advantages of modern, efficient emergency services related to public safety and disaster preparedness.

The Mambajao local government unit has partnered with NGA 911 the global leader in next-generation emergency response systems which is currently used in the United States to provide advanced solutions that integrate communication technologies to improve emergency services.

Friday, October 18, the third class municipality, put up its cutting edge, first-ever emergency response command center in the friendly island filled with natural wonders of volcanoes, lagoons, lakes, springs, waterfalls, beaches and scenic seascapes.

Mambajao officials led by Mayor Yñigo Jesus (Yggy) Romualdo said they knew there was a need for a centralized, advanced emergency response system that could provide real-time coordination and swift action during disasters to minimize the loss of life and property.

The bustling tourist destination faces a growing demand for responsive and reliable emergency services that will ensure the safety of residents and visitors. This became the key motivation to set up the 911 system capable of quickly addressing medical, fire, police, and rescue emergencies, similar to that used in the USA and Europe.

“The increasing availability of new technology and digital infrastructure inspired us to harness the power of that technology to modernize our emergency services characterized by a more efficient, tech-based system that could offer quicker response times, better resource allocation, and seamless coordination between different agencies,” said Mayor Romualdo.

He noted that existing emergency services were limited or fragmented, so local leaders invested in a next-generation 911 center that could centralize response efforts and

improve service delivery across multiple sectors like healthcare, fire response, and public safety.

“As a top tourist destination, the safety and well-being of visitors is paramount. Having an advanced emergency response center adds to Mambajao's appeal as a safe and secure destination, thus contributing to its economic growth by boosting tourism and investor confidence,” the Mayor added.

He explained that tourism growth in Mambajao made them anticipate an uptick in emergencies – from accidents at popular destinations like beaches, diving spots and hiking trails to health emergency responses brought about by new viruses and other public health crises. Fires and road accidents, especially those that involve public and tourist transportation, made officials consider an integrated response system that could dispatch emergency services more quickly and accurately.

The municipality took cues from national and international cities that have successfully implemented 911 systems. The proven success of these systems in saving lives and managing emergencies more effectively became the driving force behind the decision to develop Mambajao's own center, Mayor Romualdo added.

These motivations reflect a broader vision to position the municipality as a forward-thinking, resilient, and safe community that prioritizes the well-being of its people and visitors.

Mayor Romualdo said his big dream for Mambajao is for it to become “a model of excellence in disaster preparedness and emergency response, where every citizen feels safe and secure, knowing that the community is equipped to handle any crisis. We envision a Mambajao that is not only resilient in the face of natural disasters but also proactive, utilizing cutting-edge technology to predict, prepare for, and mitigate risks before they escalate. A state-of-the-art emergency response center would be the heart of this vision, seamlessly integrating services across medical, fire, police, and rescue departments to provide swift and coordinated action.”

“Every barangay would have trained volunteers, supported by a robust communication network that ensures rapid dissemination of information and resources. Whether it's a typhoon, volcanic activity, a health crisis, or daily emergencies like accidents, Mambajao would be known for its efficiency and readiness to respond. This dream encompasses not just survival but the protection of lives, livelihoods, and the continued growth of the municipality as a safe and thriving community,” Mayor Romualdo said.

Robert Llaguno, Country Head of NGA Philippines promised that when Mambajao’s next generation advanced 911 system becomes operational, all 911 calls to the

Mambajao DRRM Command Center will be fully recorded, with call and call transfer facilities that are seamless. When someone calls 911 the location of that caller becomes immediately known and the search radius is pinpointed with 90% accuracy.

“We are proud and happy to partner with the Mambajao LGU in bringing Next Generation 911 technology of the United States to this island tourist destination. NGA's unique emergency location features, coupled with our IoT capabilities, provides the CDRRMO exceptional situational awareness information that will protect the lives of locals, tourists and responders alike. We are happy to play a role in boosting tourism in this beautiful part of our country,” Llaguno said.

Wazzup Pilipinas Joins Press Conference for Miss International Australia 2024 and Miss Earth Australia 2024 at the Grand Westside Hotel

Wazzup Pilipinas, together with other select pageant media, joined the press conference for Team Australia, highlighting Selina McCloskey, Miss International Australia 2024,.... and Jessica Lane, Miss Earth Australia 2024, on October 19, 2024 at the Grand Westside Hotel which is now the biggest hotel in the Philippines with a total of 1530 rooms on its final completion. The hotel is newly opened and was inaugurated last June 22, 2024 by no less than President Ferdinand "BongBong" Marcos Jr as guest of honor.

In a grand celebration of beauty, culture, and advocacy, Wazzup Pilipinas, together with select pageant media, was privileged to join the press conference for Team Australia on October 19, 2024, at the newly opened Grand Westside Hotel in Manila. This star-studded event was a spotlight moment for two of Australia’s most prominent beauty queens, Selina McCloskey, Miss International Australia 2024, and Jessica Lane, Miss Earth Australia 2024.

Both queens took center stage, showcasing not only their stunning beauty but also their passion for meaningful causes. As they prepare to represent Australia on the global stage, McCloskey and Lane shared their visions, advocacy platforms, and excitement for their respective international pageants. The atmosphere at the press conference was electric, with both queens radiating confidence and charm while answering questions from the media, engaging in meaningful conversations about sustainability, empowerment, and international diplomacy through beauty pageants.

A New Landmark: The Grand Westside Hotel

The choice of venue for this monumental press conference was nothing short of spectacular. The Grand Westside Hotel, which now holds the title of the biggest hotel in the Philippines, added a layer of luxury and grandeur to the event. Situated at the heart of the bustling Metro, this hotel, boasting a total of 1,530 rooms upon its final completion, has become a beacon of Philippine hospitality. It offers guests unparalleled experiences, combining modern amenities with world-class service.

The Grand Westside Hotel was officially inaugurated on June 22, 2024, with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as the guest of honor. His presence during the hotel's launch signified the government's commitment to elevating the Philippines’ tourism and hospitality industries, with the Grand Westside Hotel positioned as a key player in attracting both local and international guests.

With a hotel this size, it’s easy to see why it was chosen to host a press event of such magnitude. The sprawling venue was the perfect backdrop to the glitz and glamour of the pageant world, as it embodies the essence of sophistication and opulence.

The Stars of the Night: Miss International and Miss Earth Australia 2024

The evening’s focus remained on Selina McCloskey and Jessica Lane, two women who have risen through the ranks to become Australia’s most inspiring beauty queens of the year.

Selina McCloskey, representing Australia in the Miss International 2024 competition, is more than just a face of beauty. Known for her advocacy on global education, McCloskey has been using her platform to promote accessible and equitable education for underprivileged communities. Her vision is to leverage the Miss International stage to connect countries and foster goodwill through educational initiatives. During the press conference, she expressed her excitement about competing in Japan and how she hopes to bring home the crown, not just for Australia, but for her cause as well.

Jessica Lane, crowned Miss Earth Australia 2024, carries the mantle of environmental advocacy. As a passionate advocate for climate change awareness and sustainable living, she plans to make her mark at the Miss Earth 2024 competition, which emphasizes environmental responsibility. Lane shared her plans for initiating green projects in Australia and around the world, emphasizing the need for international cooperation in combating the effects of climate change. Her passion for the environment was palpable as she spoke about her personal commitment to leading a sustainable lifestyle and encouraging others to do the same.

Australia’s Strong Representation on the World Stage

Both McCloskey and Lane represent Australia’s strong tradition of producing queens who are not only beautiful but also intelligent, passionate, and driven by purpose. Their participation in the Miss International and Miss Earth pageants is not only a testament to their personal hard work but also a reflection of Australia's dedication to nurturing leaders who are invested in causes larger than themselves.

Team Australia’s presence in the Philippines, particularly at the Grand Westside Hotel, further solidified the close ties between the two nations. Australia has consistently been a strong contender in international pageants, and with queens like McCloskey and Lane, the future looks incredibly promising for Team Australia.

A Promising Future for Philippine Hospitality

The Grand Westside Hotel's hosting of such a prestigious event also signals a bright future for the Philippine hospitality and events industry. With its world-class facilities and services, the hotel is set to become a major hub for international conferences, pageants, and celebrity events. Its inauguration, with the esteemed presence of President Marcos, further underlines the significance of this development to the country’s tourism strategy.

As Wazzup Pilipinas covered the press conference, it was clear that the fusion of beauty, advocacy, and Filipino hospitality created a memorable event that left everyone inspired and excited for the global pageant stage. With queens like McCloskey and Lane leading the way, we can look forward to more pageant moments that transcend mere competition, focusing instead on creating positive change for a better world.

The press conference for Team Australia at the Grand Westside Hotel was more than just a preview of two beauty queens’ journeys to international pageants—it was a celebration of purpose-driven women, the role of advocacy in pageantry, and the growth of the Philippine tourism industry. Wazzup Pilipinas is honored to have been part of this event, shining a light on the incredible potential of global beauty queens and the venues that host them. Stay tuned as we continue to bring you the latest updates on McCloskey and Lane’s road to their respective crowns!