BACOLOD City – The dual-venue kick-off of the 46th MassKara Festival on Wednesday night, October 1, drew an estimated 51,500 spectators at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) and Bacolod Public Plaza.
Colonel Joeresty Coronica, city director of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), reported that around 50,000 people gathered at the BCGC, while about 1,500 crowded the plaza.
The opening featured performances by Silent Sanctuary and Elias J TV Band at the BCGC, while the Public Plaza came alive with music from the Repakol Band.
Mayor Greg Gasataya led the opening rites and called for a moment of silence for the victims of the powerful earthquake that struck Cebu the day before. He also announced that Bacolod City would extend assistance to the province.
In his message, the mayor emphasized the festival’s significance to Bacolodnons. “MassKara is about the resilience of Bacolodnon. We remember the fire that struck Barangay 27 and many other challenges, yet the essence of MassKara is resilience. It is through this spirit that we continue to stand tall and celebrate life together,” he said.
Joining the mayor at the BCGC opening were Councilors Celia Flor, Bobby Rojas, Pao Sy, Homer Bais, and Jason Villarosa. At the Public Plaza, the program was led by Acting Vice Mayor Caesar Distrito with Councilors Israel Salanga and Em Ang, and Association of Barangay Captains President Lady Gles Gonzales-Pallen.
A fireworks display lit up the skies over both venues, officially marking the start of the 19-day celebration under the theme “One Smile, One City, One Heart.”/PN
