ILOILO City – As the city government gears up for the Dinagyang Festival, Mayor Jerry Treñas has reiterated the city’s commitment to maintaining a smoke-free environment in line with its Anti-Smoking Ordinance.
“Iloilo City remains steadfast in ensuring a safe, healthy, and enjoyable celebration for everyone,” said Treñas.
He emphasized that festival-goers are prohibited from smoking in festival venues and public spaces to protect public health and ensure a clean and safe environment.
To ensure compliance, the Iloilo City Anti-Smoking Task Force (ICAST) will deploy enforcers to monitor festival venues and other public areas. Violators will face penalties, with citation tickets issued to hold them accountable.
Treñas clarified that these measures are not intended to inconvenience anyone but are part of the city’s commitment to public health and well-being.
Iloilo City’s tobacco control efforts have earned it international recognition, including the prestigious ASEAN Smoke-Free Gold Award, the highest accolade for promoting smoke-free environments in Southeast Asia.
The mayor urged everyone to support the city’s smoke-free policies and make the Dinagyang Festival a success.
“Let us continue this legacy by showcasing not just our vibrant culture but also our dedication to health and well-being,” he added.
The city government is inviting all revelers to enjoy the festival while respecting its smoke-free policies, ensuring a memorable celebration for all.
Treñas has reminded revelers to practice responsible waste disposal and respect the city’s environment during the highly anticipated Dinagyang Festival on January 25-26, 2025.
“Please use the designated garbage areas, and vendors are reminded to provide their own garbage bins to properly manage waste,” said Treñas. He urged participants to help keep the city clean by disposing of trash properly.
The mayor also emphasized the importance of respecting the city’s plants and greenery, acknowledging the hard work of Iloilo City’s gardeners.
“Let us celebrate responsibly — please do not step on the plants or urinate indiscriminately,” he appealed.
To address sanitation concerns, portalets have been placed at strategic locations across the city, particularly near tribe performance areas.
Treñas also commended the dedication of the city’s street sweepers who ensure that festival areas are cleaned early each morning.
The mayor assured the public of traffic updates and road closures to minimize inconvenience and ensure smooth mobility during the festivities.
“Let us make this year’s Dinagyang Festival not only a celebration of culture but also an expression of our commitment to keeping Iloilo City clean, safe, and orderly,” he stressed.
Treñas called on everyone to work together for a joyful, safe, and organized celebration, showcasing the best of Iloilo City’s culture and community spirit./PN
