BY MARY JOY CAVAÑAS
ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has apologized on behalf of the Dinagyang Festival organizers after the controversial invitation of a vlogger as a guest for the 100-day countdown for Dinagyang 2024.
“On behalf of the organizers of Dinagyang 2024, I would like to offer my apology since sensitivities were affected during the countdown. Stronger coordination with the parish will be made so that Dinagyang 2024 will be properly promoted. Viva Señor Sto. Niño! Pit Señor!” said Treñas in a message.
The vlog Kalinti by TBON is known for its expletive-laden content; the decision to tap it to promote Dinagyang did not sit well with devotees of Señor Sto. Niño.
The controversial vlogger is also from Bacolod City, making Ilonggos to point out the irony of having him promote the celebration during the kickoff of the Dinagyang countdown on Friday, Oct. 20.
“I recommend to the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. that they coordinate with the parish on the bloggers who will help us promote to avoid any issues. I hope we will all help to promote Dinagyang 2024,” a statement from Treñas read.
Meanwhile, Fr. Angelo Colada, Social Communications Director of the Archdiocese of Jaro, asked the festival organizers to be sensitive towards the public’s feelings and to respect the devotees of Señor Sto. Niño./PN
