By Juliane Judilla
Progressive youth group Western Visayas Youth and Students Alliance (WVYSA) condemned Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas’ recent comments on political rallies during the upcoming Dinagyang Festival.
In a statement released on January 16, the group described the mayor’s remarks on political expression during the cultural event as an unjustifiable attack on the right to free speech and peaceful assembly.
During a press conference on January 14, Treñas addressed concerns regarding Executive Order No. 167, series of 2024, which prohibits political rallies and protests during the festival.
“Political statements and rallies should not have any place [in the Dinagyang Festival]. This is for our religious beliefs. For those people who don’t really believe in God, if they want to rally, there’s no case. They can do that in other districts far from the celebrations,” Treñas said.
In response, WVYSA strongly criticized the mayor’s statement, arguing that his stance marginalizes individuals who wish to express political views during the Dinagyang celebration.
“We criticize any attempt of the Office of the City Mayor to malign the intent of the people to air our grievances during the festivities, reducing human rights advocates to non-believers,” the group stated.
The group emphasized that the constitutional right to free speech and peaceful assembly should be upheld, particularly during a public event like Dinagyang, known for its inclusivity and community spirit.
WVYSA argued that political rallies and demonstrations are legitimate forms of advocacy, regardless of the occasion.
“People’s activities during Dinagyang are well within their constitutional rights to free speech and peaceful assembly,” the group stated.
The alliance called on the Iloilo City Government to respect and uphold these rights, urging local officials to ensure political expression is not stifled during the celebration.
“We call on the City Government to ensure that every Ilonggo, regardless of belief or political affiliation, can fully participate in this significant cultural event while exercising their right to express their opinions freely,” the group added.
