2010 Dinagyang to stay away from politics—IDFI
Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc. (IDFI) vice president Ricardo Andrada said the 2010 Dinagyang festival should not be used as a forum for political candidates to present their platforms of government and in making campaign speeches.
In yesterday’s press conference, Andrada said the festival which is more of a thanksgiving and in honor of the Child Jesus should maintain its characteristic as “apolitical.” They are welcome to witness the festival but they should not make any political statements, Andrada said.
Local and national candidates seeking elective positions in the May 2010 elections are expected to visit Iloilo City. The festival would be a very fitting venue for the candidates to present themselves because of the volume of spectators in the various judging areas particularly at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.
Andrada said the festival is a showcase of Ilonggo culture in honor of the Child Jesus. It is also a manifestation of a strong public and private partnership. It is a fun-filled Ilonggo cultural presentation.
Andrada said though they want to win over the cooperation of the local and national candidates particularly the presidential wannabes by sponsoring the event, yet they should observe the rules.
Andrada added the foundation will accept donations from the administration or opposition candidates. They would be acknowledged for their donations.
He is hoping the festival would not be tainted by politics especially in looking for funds and donations. The responses from the different companies are “moderate” when compared in previous Dinagyang celebration. In previous year, they relied on the donations of national government agencies and PAGCOR.
The foundation will source out the required funds and will be liberal in their expenditures without sacrificing the quality of the festival.
The foundation is thankful for the cooperation shown by Mayor Jerry Treñas. The city government has pledged P5 million financial assistance to the 2010 Dinagyang festival. Andrada expects the same cooperation from Representative Raul Gonzalez Jr. The foundation wants to be on the “safe side.”
The Iloilo Freedom Grandstand will also be freed from any political campaign materials such as tarpaulins and streamers just like last year. There are guidelines to be observed in the posting of streamers and tarpaulins of sponsors. The foundation will soon release the guidelines on the posting of streamers and tarpaulins.
