CITY GOV’T GIVES P18-M TO DINAGYANG ’19

The triumvirate of City Government, Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc. (IDFI), and Parish of San Jose Placer, sealed partnership to start preparations for the 51st Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2019 which highlights on Jan. 25-27.

Mayor Jose Espinosa III , IDFI president Ramon Cua Locsin, and San Jose de Placer Parish Priest Fr. Raymundo Alcayaga signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) Oct 8.

The City Government, as approved by the City Council, will extend P18-million financial assistance to IDFI, bulk of which will be for subsidies to competing tribes at P1.2 million each, an increase of P200,000 in 2018.

“This is the start of colorful and vibrant celebration to be staged in January. All the blessings that we received and soon be receiving, we owe it all to Senior Sto. Niño,” Espinosa said.

Department of Tourism (DOT) 6 Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas; IDFI vice president Marissa Segovia; City Tourism Officer Junel Ann Divinagracia; city councilors; and Cofradia del Sto. Niño de Cebu-Iloilo City Chapter served as witnesses to the signing.

Dinagyang’s 51st edition banners the theme “Connecting Communities Thru Culture and Faith.” Meanwhile, Dinagyang text, font and logo are now also a registered trademark of IDFI under the Intellectual Property Rights Office of the Philippines. They will next patent the dance and music that have made Dinagyang famous.

Locsin said the celebration next year will focus on the strength of Ilonggo artistry and cultural expression to create a meaningful celebration.

“This is the only festival in the Philippines that has back to back grand parades, from the Drum and Lyre, Kasadyahan, Sponsors Mardi Gras, Ati tribe competition to the exciting Floats Parade of Lights,” he said.

Nine groups have already signified their intentions to join the Ati Tribe competition. These are Iloilo City National High School, Ramon Avanceña National High School, Jaro National High School, Mandurriao National High School, Fort San Pedro National High School, Lapaz National High School, Bo. Obrero National High School, and Jalandoni National High School, including a group from Barangay Lanit, Jaro district.

The Search for Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2019 will be handled by International Lifestyle Designer PJ Arañador.

SOURCE: Iloilo City Government

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