Preparations for the Dinagyang Festival 2027 have started, with city officials aiming to address public feedback from the previous celebration and improve the festival experience.
City Councilor Rex Marcus Sarabia said he met with Mayor Raisa Treñas to review lessons from the 2026 festival and discuss possible improvements for next year.
Proposed measures include bringing back banderitas made from recyclable materials, installing flaglets, adding more portable toilets and washing stations, and opening government buildings to give the public access to restrooms.
Officials are also looking at subsidies for food kiosks to make festival food more affordable.
A Technical Working Group will review last year’s festival to ensure that plans address logistical issues and public safety.
“Gusto naton i-dissect kag tun-an ang mga do’s and don’ts sang nagligad nga Dinagyang para mas mapaayo ang experience sang mga tawo sa masunod nga tuig,” Sarabia said, emphasizing the importance of learning from past shortcomings.
Public feedback from Dinagyang 2026 pointed to several concerns. Many Ilonggos were disappointed by changes made by the Iloilo City Government and Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc., such as reducing the judging areas from a carousel route to only two locations: the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand and the Iloilo Sports Complex.
Some attendees also noted the absence of traditional banderitas, while others raised concerns about blocked views and limited access at judging areas, which affected their experience.
Councilor Sarabia said community input will be central to planning next year’s festival, with the goal of making it more inclusive, enjoyable, and environmentally friendly.IMT
