Construction of new Freedom Grandstand on schedule

THE Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc (IDFI) reported that the new Freedom Grandstand in Muelle Loney, Iloilo City would be completed in time for the 2019 Dinagyang Festival highlights.

IDFI president Ramon Cua Locsin said the City Engineer’s Office informed him that the construction work is on schedule.

“I have talked with Engr. Bobby Divinagracia and so far he told me that the accomplishment of the contractor is on time. So they are 100 percent sure that when the Dinagyang Festival comes, we will have a grandstand in Muelle Loney,” Locsin said.

The 51st Dinagyang Festival will be on Jan 25-27, 2019.

Locsin said it will be a problem if the new venue is not completed, as they need a bigger space next year because 400 Japanese tourists have already reserved their tickets at the main stage to watch the festival.

Department of Tourism (DOT)-6 Regional Director Helen Catalbas earlier said MV Pacific Venus, a cruise ship from Japan, will be visiting Iloilo City in January.

The vessel carries around 400 to 600 crew and passengers who will stay for two days and one night.

In case the new Freedom Grandstand is unfinished by January, Locsin said they are eyeing an alternative venue on De la Rama Street.

But he said the space is limited as it can only accommodate 500 persons.

The new Freedom Grandstand can hold more or less 2,000 persons.

SOURCE: The Daily Guardian

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