By By Juliane Judilla
Progressive youth group Western Visayas Youth and Students Alliance (WVYSA), condemned Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas’ recent comments on the observance of political rallies during the upcoming Dinagyang Festival.
In a statement released on January 16, the group called the Mayor’s remarks on political expression during the cultural event an unjustifiable attack on people’s rights to free speech and peaceful assembly.
Mayor Treñas, during a press conference on January 14, made a controversial statement about the place of political rallies in the festivities, addressing the concerns regarding Executive Order No. 167, series of 2024, which prohibits any form of political rallies and protests.
“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,” he said.
In response, the WVYSA firmly criticized the Mayor’s remarks, arguing that his stance unfairly marginalizes individuals who wish to express their 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.
They emphasized that citizens have the constitutional right to free speech and to peaceably assemble, and these rights should not be disregarded, particularly in a public event like Dinagyang, which is known for its inclusivity and community spirit.
The group also pointed out that political rallies and demonstrations are a legitimate form of protest and advocacy, irrespective of the occasion.
“People’s activities during Dinagyang are well within the constitutional rights of the people for free speech and to peaceably assemble,” the group stated.
WVYSA called on the Iloilo City Government to respect and uphold the constitutional rights of every Ilonggo, stressing that political expression and rallies should not be 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./PT
