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Iloilo City gov’t vows continued support for Dinagyang 2009 Festival

Posted on November 21, 2008

ILOILO CITY, Nov. 21 (PNA)-– Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas committed to support Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc. (IDFI) in its conduct of Dinagyang festival 2009 next year.

Treñas gave his assurance despite the new composition of IDFI that was based on a Commission on Audit circular.

COA ruled last year that no local government unit (LGU) should extend financial assistance to a private organization, having also members from a particular LGU.

As compliance, no official or government employee now holds a position in the IDFI and the committees for Dinagyang.

“IDFI is now a full private foundation,” Treñas declared.

IDFI is currently headed by Lee Chuan, a businessman, with members from private and business groups, as well as volunteers.

The old structure had Treñas, city department heads, councilors and other city officials as members.

He also abolished the executive orders earlier issued regarding the committees for Dinagyang, as the group will finalize the new chairmanships and membership.

Meantime, the official sees no effect on the holding of the Dinagyang 2009 next year with IDFI’s new structure.

Treñas said he maintains the city government’s Php3 million subsidy for the competing Dinagyang tribes, to be facilitated by the foundation.

Hailed as the country’s best tourism event for three straight years by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines, Dinagyang festival in Iloilo is scheduled from January 14 to 25, 2009. (PNA)

Check the schedule of Dingayang 2009 here.

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