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BACOLOD City – The Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) has called on vendors and festivalgoers to observe proper waste segregation at the ongoing 45th MassKara Festival, which runs from October 12 to 27, 2024.
Festival sites include the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), Lacson Tourism Strip, the City’s Public Plaza, and The Upper East-Megaworld.
BENRO head Ma. Fe Trespuentes stated that the office is working closely with festival site supervisors to ensure proper waste management. BENRO has deployed personnel to monitor compliance, particularly among kiosk owners.
Festival attendees are encouraged to dispose of their PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) plastic bottles in designated PET bottle bins, with around 400 bins placed at key locations across festival sites.
The city, in partnership with a beverage company, has launched a waste segregation initiative where collected PET bottles can be exchanged for prizes.
“We are also including barbecue sticks in the segregation program because they pose a hazard to garbage collectors,” Trespuentes explained, urging the public to properly dispose of these items to prevent injuries.
The Bacolod Yuhum Foundation Inc. (BYFI) reported that an estimated 45,000 people attended the MassKara Grand Countdown Salubong on Friday, October 11, despite light rain. The event at the BCGC grounds featured vibrant dance performances, games, local bands, and the presentation of Miss Bacolod MassKara. Pop-rock band December Avenue entertained the crowd, adding excitement to the start of the festivities.
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez officially opened the festival alongside Bacolod Lone District Congressman Greg Gasataya.
“Let’s enjoy the MassKara Festival. We have many activities lined up for this year’s celebration,” Benitez said.
Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) Director Colonel Joeresty Coronica noted that this year’s celebration attracted a larger crowd, especially with the addition of a new carnival at the back of the BCGC.
Coronica reported no incidents so far, adding, “We hope this month-long event will end peacefully and successfully. We are asking for everyone’s cooperation and vigilance while enjoying the festival.”
Also present at the opening ceremony were members of the city council, directors of BYFI, and other local officials./PN
