As part of the MassKara Festival highlights buildup, 10 barangays showcased their official costumes and masks Oct. 7 at Robinsons Place Bacolod during the MassKara Preview event.
Representing barangays 6, 7, 11, 13, 21, 29, 39, Bata, Handumanan, and Tangub, each group presented vibrant, handcrafted designs that reflect the creativity, culture, and pride of their communities.
Festival director Rodney Mitz Ascalon said these costumes and masks “represent months of hard work and the resilient spirit of Bacolod.”
Councilor Jason Villarosa, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Tourism, said the winners will represent Bacolod in future events.
The MassKara Preview accounts for 30 percent of the total score for the Best in Mask and Best in Costume awards in the arena and streetdance competitions next week.
The arena and streetdance competition barangay category will be held on Oct. 19, while the schools category is scheduled for Oct. 18.
Meanwhile, “PuWeDe G!”, another MassKara Festival event also opened yesterday at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central, and celebrates the creativity and spirit of Bacolod’s PWD community.
PWD entrepreneurs are showcasing handmade crafts and products from various barangays and organizations, the Bacolod Gugma Foundation said in a press release.
The special event is in partnership with Councilor Caesar Distrito, chairperson of the SP Committee on PWD Affairs, and the Gugma Foundation.
Sectoral events that reflect the vibrancy and unity of Bacolod are also lined up this second week of the revelry.
The MassK Fest 2025: Bacolod Pop Dance Cover competition will highlight the passion of Bacolod’s youth, who will showcase their energy and idol-inspired performances in a K-Pop and P-Pop showdown that connects global music trends to local culture.
Eliminations are set today, Oct. 8, where groups will bring their best choreography and style to secure a spot in the finals.
The competition culminates on Oct. 16, when the most outstanding dance crews face off in a high-energy finale that promises to light up the festival stage.
The Massrakrakan Band competition, on the other hand, aims to put Bacolod’s homegrown musicians at center stage, with bands from different barangays showcasing their rhythm, passion, and creativity in a music showdown that celebrates unity through sound.
The eliminations started Oct. 2 and will continue on Oct. 9, testing the range and originality of the participating groups. The grand finale on Oct. 13 will bring together the best of the best, as bands perform both cover songs and original compositions inspired by the MassKara Festival, proving that music is truly the heartbeat of Bacolod.
The Petskara Picnic Party on Oct. 12 is a joyful gathering for pawrents and their pets, with activities designed to celebrate the deep bond between Bacolodnons and their furbabies.
The day begins with a pet walk at Megaworld’s The Upper East, from 6-8 a.m., and continues with an All-Breed Fun Match in the afternoon.
From 1-8 p.m., the Bacolod Government Center (BGC) grounds will host picnic-style festivities capped by a pet fashion show, where furry friends will strut in sustainable outfits made from recycled materials.
The MassKara Collab Fest on Oct. 10 at 4 p.m. will gather local influencers and viral content creators from across the country for a convergence of digital culture, creativity, and live engagement.
By weaving together dance, music, pets, and digital collaboration, the sectoral events at the BGC grounds hope to capture the true essence of MassKara Festival 2025: A celebration of life, creativity, and unity in the City of Smiles. ||
