• THERESA MAE DULMAN
This year’s MassKara Festival continues to expand its scope beyond main stage performances by integrating sectoral and barangay activities in the program lineup.
Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. president and festival director Rodney Mitz Ascalon said the initiative aims to provide local artists, women, children, persons with disabilities, and pet owners direct platforms to participate and showcase their identity during the citywide celebration.
The visual arts sector will kick off the community events on Oct. 3 with the on-the-spot mask painting competition at Robinsons Bacolod, with around 75 participants from various barangays and institutions competing.
“If you know someone who still wants to join, our registration is open until Sept. 30,” Noelie Morales, event head of the mask painting competition, said in a press conference Sept. 24.
Other sector-focused events will be held throughout October, including the PuWeDe G! 2.0 on Oct. 7 at Ayala Malls Capitol Central, featuring a product expo, talent showcase, and livelihood contests for persons with disabilities and the SPED community.
“I hope people will attend our event, and that everyone will truly enjoy the activity,” Mimai Arban, head of the PWD Day activity, said.
Women’s groups and fitness enthusiasts will gather on Oct. 10 at the Bacolod City Government Center for ZumDigras 2026, a dance fitness and pageant competition involving representatives from 13 barangays.
Pet owners are also expected to participate in the Petskara at Robinsons Bacolod, which features an upcycled fashion show for pets, a fun match, and community games.
“It’s not just about ‘Share the Smile, Celebrate Gugma’, it’s also about sharing with the beneficiary of our event, which is BACH Project PH. They are a nongovernment organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and promotes animal adoption,” Pets Day activity event head, Joy Piga, said.
Meanwhile, Lizette Sy, event head of the Kids Day Out, said that activities for children, dubbed “SuperKidsKara”, will be held on Oct. 11 at the government center grounds, with superhero-themed games and self-expression activities designed to promote inclusion and kindness.
Arban said this is only the initial lineup of sectoral events as they will be adding many more to the roster.
“We already had the sectoral events last year, and the reason we are back is that we saw how effective it was. We saw that it engages many sectors of the community and brings them joy—allowing them to feel truly involved and part of the celebration,” Women’s Day event head, Joann Visitacion, said. | TMD
