Balanced Dinagyang Decorum

The Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) and city officials find themselves in a bind following a recent controversy involving a singer’s use of an Ilonggo expression deemed profane during a Dinagyang Festival event.

While the performance itself ignited mixed reactions, the incident underscores a recurring dilemma: How do we preserve the vibrance and inclusivity of Dinagyang while maintaining a sense of decency and decorum?

Dinagyang Festival has long been celebrated for its rich religious roots, colorful performances, and its ability to bring together Ilonggos and visitors from all walks of life. It is, after all, a festival for everyone – from the devout to the partygoers. But with its inclusivity comes challenges in managing behavior and expression, especially in the context of live concerts and gatherings where emotions often run high.

IFFI president Allan Tan’s call for rules regulating profanity during events is a practical response to the issue. Such guidelines would align with the festival’s reputation as a family-friendly and culturally significant event. But Tan’s acknowledgment that “it’s a learning process for all” reveals the complexity of the task.

The controversy surrounding the use of the expression “yudipota” highlights not only sensitivities to language but also the diverse ways in which people interpret art and creativity. What is considered offensive to some may be viewed as self-expression to others.

Mayor Jerry Treñas and the IFFI rightly emphasized the need for balance – one that respects artistic freedom while ensuring that performances uphold the dignity and values of Ilonggos. However, imposing rigid rules during Dinagyang may prove easier said than done.

The festival is not confined to its traditional core activities. Side events like concerts, street parties, and late-night gatherings at bars have become integral to the Dinagyang experience. Some disco bars play songs with explicit lyrics that reflect modern music trends, and audiences often respond in ways beyond an organizer’s control. This makes regulating decency during Dinagyang both a logistical and cultural challenge.

But challenges should not deter efforts to improve the festival. Rules, if crafted carefully, can enhance the experience for everyone, creating a safer and more inclusive space. The aim should be to guide conduct without stifling creativity.

Moving forward, organizers and local officials must engage stakeholders in crafting these rules. Artists, venue operators, and even festivalgoers should be part of the conversation. The rules must also recognize the festival’s dual identity – as a sacred celebration and a modern cultural spectacle – and strike a balance that honors both aspects.

Dinagyang’s vibrance lies in its inclusivity, and maintaining that spirit should remain its cornerstone. The faithful, the revelers, and everyone in between deserve a space where they feel welcome and respected.

For all its challenges, Dinagyang continues to be a festival for all. Let’s ensure it stays that way, not by limiting its scope but by enriching its core values – decency, inclusivity, and celebration. The rules, if implemented well, should serve as a guide to protect and enhance the festival’s legacy.

After all, Dinagyang is for everyone, and it should have something for everyone.