Organizers bar politics from events

The Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc. (IDFI) affirmed the ongoing Iloilo Dinagyang Festival, which comes to a close this weekend, is not a venue for politics.

“The festival is a very important cultural and religious celebration of the Ilonggos,” explained IDFI President Ramon Cua-Locsin. “It is a showcase of Ilonggo talent and artistry; [and] underlines the influence of faith among devotees honoring the Señor Sto. Niño.”

He noted, rules are in place to keep political messages out of the festival.

“Parade guidelines and orientation are very specific that an election candidate cannot join the parade,” the organizer said. “Campaign materials and similar collaterals are not allowed.”

“’Epals’ are not welcome,” he added.

Cua-Locsin also called on candidates to remove campaign materials during the festival.

“We strongly urge politicians and political parties to please remove and stop littering Iloilo City with campaign materials,” he stressed. “There will be enough time for election campaigns after the festival.”/WDJ