DINAGYANG A GROUND FOR BANNING RALLIES?

EXECUTIVE Order No. 10 of the Iloilo City Mayor’s Office banning rallies during the Dinagyang Festival raised concerns among local activists about infringement of constitutional rights.

According to Bagong Alyansang Makabayan - Panay, this order prohibiting political expressions during a cultural event pwerte ka- OA (overacting) kuno,

and contravened the freedoms of speech, expression, and assembly guaranteed by the Philippine Constitution.

The freedoms of speech, expression, and assembly are guaranteed by Article 3, Section 4 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Could Dinagyang be cited as ground for the curtailment of these basic liberties? Tarso!

The essence of democracy lies in the ability to express diverse opinions, even during cultural celebrations. The blanket prohibition on political slogans and suspension of rally permits during Dinagyang, therefore, appears not only excessive but also constitutionally dubious.

Moreover, the selective enforcement of the order kuno was discriminatory. While civil society organizations were restrained from political expressions, politicians reportedly continued to use the Dinagyang for their agendas. Haslo!

While the intention to ensure a peaceful and orderly Dinagyang was understandable, it should not come at the expense of suppressing constitutional rights. A more balanced approach, which respects both cultural festivities and the democratic rights of expression and assembly, would better serve the interests of all stakeholders in Iloilo City.

Say mo, Elmer F.?

Inday Jam-jam “dies-dies” laughing!