ILOILO City – Confusion over the provincial government’s announcement that viewing the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition was “free” sparked complaints from several Ilonggos who were denied entry to the Iloilo Sports Complex over the weekend, January 24, after discovering that tickets were still required to watch the performances inside the stadium.
Large numbers of spectators flocked to the Iloilo Sports Complex in La Paz district following public announcements that the Kasadyahan competition could be watched free of charge. However, many were stopped at entrances due to the “no ticket, no entry” policy imposed.
The restriction left some attendees frustrated, including a woman from Dingle, ILoilo who identified herself as a retired member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and appealed for authorities to allow them inside despite not having tickets.
“Gusto namon tani magtan-aw. Kagapon pa kami naghalin sa uma pakadto sa syudad. Aton kaugalingon nga festival na gid ni, indi pa kami kasulod,” she said.
The woman urged organizers to allow unticketed spectators inside, noting that the field was spacious and that they were willing to stand just to watch the performances.
Another spectator, who identified himself as Nono from Iloilo City, said they went to the venue believing that no tickets were required, based on the province’s public announcements.
“Sang naglantaw kami diri sang blocking, na-announce nga libre. Ang tanan puede i-accommodate. Wala kami ya idea nga may gina-distribute sila nga ticket sa kada LGU (local government units). Kon kabalo kami tani naka-avail man kami kon diin ina makuha,” he said.
Following the complaints, the provincial government issued an official statement to clarify the policy governing entry to the venue.
“Entrance to the venue is free. However, those who wish to watch the performances inside the stadium are required to have a ticket. This has been communicated from the beginning. The ticket is free and not for sale. It is simply a system to manage the number of people inside the stadium and ensure everyone’s safety and comfort,” the statement read.
The provincial government further explained that the ticketing system was similar to free events that still require prior registration.
“Think of it like joining a free online webinar. The event is free, but you still need to register to get your access link. You do not pay anything — you simply follow the process,” the statement added.
According to the province, seating inside the sports complex was allocated to those who secured tickets in advance, with participating local government units given priority seating in recognition of their role in the event’s success.
Officials said spectators who arrived without tickets could no longer be accommodated as all available seats had already been assigned, in line with safety and crowd management guidelines.
“We sincerely appreciate the public’s enthusiasm and overwhelming support for Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan. We ask for your understanding,” the provincial government said./PN
