• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The MassKara Festival 2025 officially kicked off yesterday, launching its 19-day celebration with the theme “One Smile, One City, One Heart.”
The grand opening was celebrated simultaneously at two main venues: the traditional Bacolod Public Plaza and Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) grounds.
According to Bacolod City Police Director PCol. Joeresty Coronica, the estimated crowd in the BCGC was conservatively placed at 50,000, while there were an estimated 1,500 attendees at Bacolod Public Plaza.
Before his opening speech, Mayor Greg Gasataya encouraged the festival goers to offer a silent prayer for the victims of the earthquake.
The Public Plaza featured the Repakol Band, while the BCGC hosted OPM artists like Silent Sanctuary and Elias J. TV Band, bringing both heritage and contemporary flair to the launch.
Paul Salas and Ara Mina were among the featured artists for the MassKara opening.
Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. stressed that this year focuses heavily on inclusivity, with upcoming events dedicated to various community sectors.
A major highlight will be the return of the schools division Street and Arena Dance Competition, which hasn’t been held for five years.
The main highlight weekend is set for October 17 to 19, followed by a Grand After-Party on October 26.*
