President Rodrigo Duterte has extended his greetings to “the people of Iloilo City and the rest of the nation”, celebrating the world-famous Dinagyang Festival.
“This annual religous and cultural event has always been a showcase of the Filipinos’ distinct sense of solidarity, deep faith, and rich traditions,” Durterte said in a statement.
“It also displays our fondness for merrymaking and community gatherings. May the spirit of ‘bayanihan’ remain alive in our hearts and in our deeds as we deepen our devotion to God and strengthen our participation in nation-building,” he added.
Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the city decided to celebrate the 53rd anniversary of Dinagyang virtually.
“Now that we are holding these festivities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, I pray for everyone’s real hoy, good health, and safety from all kinds of hard,” said Duterte.
“Together, let us recover and build back better from setbacks of the challenging times. I wish you a happy and memorable celebration.”
Today’s One Dinagyang Digital Presentation, the festivals highlight, will be streamed on social media pages of the Iloilo City Government, Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) and selected media oraganizations.IMT
