BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has called on all Ilonggos to honor the core purpose of the Dinagyang Festival — a solemn religious celebration dedicated to Señor Santo Niño.
Emphasizing its spiritual roots, he stressed the importance of keeping the festival free from political and election-related activities to preserve its sanctity and unity.
The mayor reminded the public that political activities have a designated period under the Omnibus Election Code and urged everyone to respect the sacred nature of the event.
By focusing on devotion and unity, Treñas believes the Dinagyang Festival can remain a meaningful and unifying celebration for all.
To safeguard the festival’s solemnity, Treñas has issued Executive Order No. 167, ensuring the 2025 Dinagyang Festivals remain dedicated to honoring Sr. Santo Niño.
He clarified the order’s intent to prohibit “political colors,” which refers to symbols, activities, or indirect campaigning that may signify support for a specific candidate or political party during the festival.
Treñas also addressed concerns about freedom of expression, clarifying that the executive order does not infringe on constitutional rights.
Instead, it specifically targets activities that undermine the festival’s religious and cultural focus, while leaving space for lawful expression.
To manage the presence of VIPs and political candidates during the festival, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will implement its Major Events Security Framework (MESF) to ensure their safety and proper conduct.
As the Dinagyang Festival approaches, Mayor Treñas reiterated the festival’s purpose — a celebration of faith and devotion to Sr. Santo Niño.
He emphasized that without this devotion, the festival would lose its true meaning.
By adhering to these principles and keeping the festival free from political interference, the mayor envisions a unifying and harmonious celebration for all Ilonggos./PN