ILOILO City – All main thoroughfares and judging areas for the Dinagyang Festival 2025 highlights set for January 25 and 26 will be free from tarpaulins, especially those featuring images of local and national officials seeking election or reelection in the May 12, 2025 midterm elections.
Mayor Jerry Treñas made this commitment during a press conference on Tuesday, January 14, following observations during the January 9 and 10 opening salvo of the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan and Dinagyang Ati tribes competition, where tarpaulins were spotted on private properties near Judging Area 2 (Iloilo Provincial Capitol), including those of former Interior secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. who is running for senator and Raisa Treñas-Chu who is running for city mayor.
“We will ensure that the entire city, especially the main thoroughfares, will be free of tarpaulins, including those featuring me, my children, or my (Uswag) group,” said Treñas.
To uphold this, the mayor instructed the Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structure Unit (ASIS-U) to remove any unauthorized tarpaulins.
“At least for this Dinagyang, we want to show that our city is clean,” he added.
Political Rallies Prohibited in Key Areas
In addition to banning tarpaulins, Treñas has strictly prohibited political rallies in downtown areas or locations where Dinagyang tribes will perform.
He suggested that political events be held in venues outside the City Proper, such as Mandurriao district’s Diversion Road or Festive Walk Mall, which also hosts Dinagyang-related activities.
“We are not here to curtail anyone’s constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression. So if you want to perform or rally, you can go to Jaro and do whatever you please,” Treñas said.
However, he clarified that political parties or candidates must secure the necessary permits from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) as the election period has begun.
Treñas emphasized that the Dinagyang Festival is a celebration of faith and unity, with no room for political statements or rallies.
“This is for our religious beliefs. Those who wish to rally can do so elsewhere, far from our celebration,” he said.
VIP Guests and First Family Invited
Mayor Treñas expressed excitement about a lively Dinagyang Festival 2025, with numerous high-profile guests invited. These include President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Senate President Francis Escudero, all senators, congressmen and congresswomen, governors, mayors, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Treñas hopes the festival will be a grand and successful event as it marks his last Dinagyang Festival as Iloilo City mayor.
Regulating Speeches
Should the First Family confirm their attendance, Treñas said they will be allowed to address the public.
Other guests will just be acknowledged or welcomed briefly to inform spectators of their presence./PN