Ilonggo artists take stand vs PDAF

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — In relation to the prayer rally staged yesterday, Ilonggo artists also expressed their stand against the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) via a painting done in front of Jaro Cathedral in this city.

On a 9-ft x 10-ft size canvass, the visual artists---members of DIHON (Dibuhista nga Nagahiliugyon sa Negros) and Ambon (Artista kag Manunulat nga Makibanwahanon)---conveyed their views against the controversial PDAF.

Momo Dalisay of Ambon said that on their painting they placed a big water jug, symbolizing the government fund with two faucets, one of which was much bigger than the other.

He said the bigger faucet was about those politicians who personally benefited more from PDAF, while the small one has a tie on it intended for the poor and ordinary Filipino citizens.

Dalisay said his group was among the poor and ordinary Filipinos, who can hardly avail themselves of the programs of government.

He said that, as artists, they have the capacity to preserve our cultural traditions and customs that will be passed on to the next generations, but by the manner the government treated them, it could be otherwise since great Filipino artists already showcased their talent outside the country with the credit claimed by other countries as well.

This time, the artists have the obligation to express their stand on the PDAF issue, and that, through their paintings, they will be able to awaken the consciousness of other people to take a stand against this abused fund. — (FREEMAN)