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Monday, January 16, 2006
Dinagyang not anomalous, promotional says PIA
By Lory Ann B. Bilbao
THE Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Station Manager Nena S. Magalona defended the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc. (IDFI) against the statement of the Sta. Teresita Parish Council that it is making Dinagyang promotional instead of pushing religiosity.
"According to Fr. Antonio Anino (not Kalino as previously reported) of the Sta. Teresita Parish, Dinagyang is to promote tourism only, which is not true," Magalona said.
Magalona said as shown in the foundation's program, religious activities such as masses and rites giving tribute to Sr. Sto. Nino refutes Anino's claim.
Magalona added that the failure of some sectors, including some parishes to appreciate the festival is one of the main problems of the foundation.
Created in 2000, the IDFI aims to handle the Dinagyang Festival celebration.
"Some claim that the foundation is anomalous. The PIA will not be involved with an anomalous organization. But the truth is, IDFI is a non-profit organization. Its members like us do not get any pay for the work we render," Magalona clarified Thursday.
IDFI was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and seed fund was provided with the foundation being used as preliminary fund for expenses the foundation concurs during the initial period of preparations.
The money of the foundation including donations and or sponsorships is carried into the foundation's depository bank.
Nobody can issue check that easy without going through the approval of the officers of the foundation, said Magalona.
Funds released were subject to liquidation within 15 days. Disbursements are in line with the allocation of the foundation and the statement of expenses is publicized, she added.
"We were misinterpreted (committee members) of getting honoraria but the truth is that we were getting no single cent."
As of press time, the IDFI and the said parish have not met to come up with an agreement regarding the putting up of Judging Area 4 in Quezon-De Leon Streets where the parish is located.
IDFI Executive Director Ben Jimena earlier said there was Plan B if nothing could be fairly agreed --- Mabini de Leon instead of Quezon de Leon will the new location of Stage 4.
(January 16, 2006 issue)
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