THE MASSKARA Festival 2025 became even merrier and more inclusive this year with the celebration of PuWeDe G! on October 7 at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central Activity Center, showcasing the talents of the city’s persons with disability (PWD) community.
“This is not simply a competition — it is a day of recognition and celebration for a vital part of our community,” said Festival Director Rodney Mitz Ascalon.
Dedicated to the PWD community, the event highlighted their talent, creativity, and capabilities. The title, PuWeDe G!, comes from the Hiligaynon phrase “Puwede gid”, which means “Definitely possible” or “Yes, you really can!”
Participants included registered PWD residents, special education (SPED) students from various schools, and members of barangay-based PWD associations or sole enterprises, according to Mimai Arban, event head for PWD Day of Bacolod Gugma Foundation, Inc. (BGFI).
“The inclusion of PWDs in the MassKara Festival highlights Bacolod City’s commitment to inclusivity, equality, and empowerment,” said Councilor Caesar Distrito, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod committee on PWD affairs. “This event showcases the talents and resilience of the PWD community and reminds everyone that the spirit of MassKara — joy, unity, and hope — belongs to all Bacolodnons, regardless of ability.”
The program featured talent competitions, forums, product expos, and entertainment, complemented by a PWD product fair, a magic show for children on the autism spectrum, and professional talks with gift-giving sessions for parents of children with special needs.
In the PWD Got Talent competition, Jericho Arvin Caña emerged as the champion, taking home P10,000 in cash, a P1,000 gift check from Metro Department Store, a Canister Burner from Regasco, along with a trophy and certificate. Jenaly Divero was named first runner-up, receiving P8,000 in cash, a Canister Burner, trophy, and certificate, while Cheryl Baldomer placed second runner-up, winning P6,000 in cash, a Canister Burner, trophy, and certificate. Those who did not make it to the top three each received a P2,000 consolation prize.
Meanwhile, in the PWD Product Competition, the Mansilingan Association of PWD Inc. (MAPs) clinched the championship title, earning P5,000 in cash, a P1,000 gift check, trophy, and certificate. The Handumanan Association of Persons with Disabilities (HAPs) was awarded first runner-up, receiving P3,500 in cash, a trophy, and certificate, while The Able Hands – PWD Mandalagan was hailed second runner-up, taking home P2,500 in cash, a trophy, and certificate. Participants who did not place received a P1,000 consolation prize.
Caña, grand winner of the PWD Got Talent, expressed his excitement: “I didn’t expect to win, but I’m happy I did! I thought the contestants who sang or danced would win, but it turns out I became the champion. The experience was amazing, and I’m grateful for the opportunity and support!”
Through a variety of events, PuWeDe G! provided Bacolod’s PWD community a platform to showcase their talents and potential. As the program’s message says: “You belong, you matter, and you shine.”/PN
