BACOLOD City – The 2025 MassKara Festival, set for a 19-day celebration from October 1 to 19, was officially launched on September 13 at a hotel in this city, highlighting inclusivity and unity as its central theme.
Mayor Greg Gasataya, together with this year’s festival organizer, the Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. (BGFI), led the launch and unveiled the festival’s official theme song, “One Smile, One City, One Heart.” The song, written by Bacolod’s First Lady Maih Gasataya, was introduced through a lyric video and reflects the spirit of resilience, pride, and togetherness that MassKara embodies.
Mayor Gasataya turned emotional during his welcome message as he recalled the fire tragedy in Barangay 27 on September 12, which razed more than 200 houses. He said the incident reminded Bacolodnons of the origins of MassKara, born out of the sugar industry crisis and a ferry tragedy that once tested the city’s strength.
“The fire reminded us of those difficult times in Bacolod. But just like before, we will rise from this tragedy because of everyone’s support — not just from government, but also from the private sector. Madamo guid nga salamat sa inyo tanan,” the mayor said.
Mayor Gasataya also shared his personal connection to the festival, recalling his days as a student participant in the street dance and arena competition. He noted that MassKara continues to inspire new generations and strengthen Bacolod’s identity.
Festival Director Rodney Mitz Ascalon emphasized that MassKara 2025 is designed to be inclusive and community-driven.
“This is a legacy that comes once in a lifetime,” he said, crediting the KaGugma Workforce for their dedication in bringing the vision to life.
The highlights of the festival — the Electric MassKara and the school and barangay street dance and arena competitions — are scheduled for October 17 to 19. The city government will provide subsidies directly to participating schools and barangays, with Mayor Gasataya confirming that preparations for their release are underway.
The foundation also assured the public that no signal jamming will be implemented during the festival’s highlights, though strict security measures will be enforced across the four main venues: Bacolod Public Plaza, Bacolod City Government Center, Lacson Tourism Strip, and The Upper East Megaworld.
Both the city government and the foundation vowed to sustain their support for MassKara, affirming their commitment to keep the festival community-centered and people-driven./PN
