Bizgroup optimistic over Dinagyang prospects
Business groups in the city are excited for the staging of the Dinagyang 2009 festival with the recent signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Incorporated (IDFI) and city government here.
Iloilo Business Club (IBC) Executive Director Leah Lara said she is elated that the Dinagyang is now in full swing adding that business opportunities as an impact of the world-renown Ilonggo celebration will probably double next year.
Lara said the business community has been preparing for the annual event for the profit it brings to the locales.
In fact, Dinagyang literally transforms Iloilo City into a business Mecca once tribal drums start beating as early as the last week of December.
The influx of foreign and local tourist boosts the city's revenues during the festival's month, January.
In 2008, Dinagyang Foundation has gained almost three million worth of profits. The festival has been the best tourism event in the country for three consecutive years.
Dinagyang has been festival favorites among local and foreign businessmen due to its tourism come-on and the large income it brings to the city coffers.
These include sales from hotel reservations, food festivals, tours conducted by various travel agencies, advertisements, street vendors, among others.
Likewise, 'balikbayans' and OFWs wanting to witness the spectacular presentation of Ati Tribes have contributed to the income generated by Dinagyang, since it started.
Tourism Regional Director Edwin Trompeta admits that Dinagyang generates millions for the city government, as well as small and large scale entrepreneurs. (PNA)