ILOILO CITY- The selection of a vlogger to lead the countdown for the upcoming Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2024 has stirred controversy and sparked debate among netizens. The Iloilo city government’s decision to invite the Bacolod-based vlogger Kalinti by TBON has left many questioning the choice.
The issue began when the official poster for the 100 Day Countdown to the Dinagyang Festival was revealed, featuring the vlogger’s face more prominently than the festival’s logo or the image of Santo Niño. This design choice raised eyebrows among the Ilonggo community, who took to social media to express their concerns.
“Why Kalinti by TBON? What’s so special about having a Negrense vlogger lead the Dinagyang Festival countdown? Do we lack local talent, or is it simply about popularity?” questioned one Ilonggo netizen in a post on a popular Facebook page.
In a somewhat sarcastic response, Gab Umadhay from the Iloilo city government suggested that the city might not be able to afford inviting international stars like Taylor Swift, so vloggers like Kalinti by TBON were chosen instead.
“Maybe Iloilo can’t afford Taylor Swift. Sila anay ang pamukaw sang simo anay time sang dinagyang. Kay bal-an niyo, the next time ang mga international stars ginakua sa Dinagyang. High-paying guests of Dinagyang,” said Umadhay in response to the netizen’s criticism.
Despite the controversy, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas personally welcomed Kalinti by TBON, and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) and city government continued to provide a platform for such performances during the prestigious Ilonggo tourism event.
The Dinagyang Festival, traditionally a religious celebration, has taken on a more inclusive approach, allowing performances like vlogging to become a part of the festivities. This change in direction has left some locals divided about whether the cultural significance of the event is being diluted.
As the countdown to the Dinagyang Festival 2024 continues, the debate surrounding the choice of a vlogger for a prominent role in the event rages on, with differing opinions about the evolving nature of the festival and the increasing presence of vloggers and influencers
