MassKara 2025: A Celebration Of Gratitude, Unity, And New Beginnings

There are moments in life when celebration feels deeper than festivity — when joy takes on meaning beyond the lights, the music, and the crowd. For me, this year’s MassKara Festival 2025 was exactly that: a season not only of color and rhythm, but of gratitude, reflection, and quiet realization that we are truly blessed to call Bacolod home.

This year’s MassKara was extraordinary in so many ways. It marked a new chapter for the city under the leadership of Mayor Greg Gasataya and the Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., who brought back the heart of the festival through the theme “One Smile. One City. One Heart.” From the grand opening at the Bacolod City Government Center to the nightly gatherings at the Bacolod Public Plaza, and from the pageants to the street dances, the message was clear — MassKara is once again for everyone.

A Festival Reclaimed by the People

I have witnessed many editions of the MassKara Festival through the years, but this one stood out because it felt more personal, more inclusive, and more grounded in purpose. Each event seemed to reach a wider circle — giving space to children, seniors, artists, workers, and even the quiet heroes behind every performance. It was not just about spectacle; it was about belonging.

This year, the slogan did not remain as words on banners — it was lived out. “One Smile” came alive in the faces of dancers who performed despite the rain. “One City” was seen in how barangays, schools, and private sectors worked hand in hand. And “One Heart” resonated in how the city stood together through every challenge, from unpredictable weather to logistical tests, always choosing cooperation over complaint.

Recognizing the Media — A Celebration of Gratitude

Among the many highlights of this year’s celebration was something that touched me deeply — the recognition and support for Bacolod’s media community.

As part of the Negrense Bloggers, we were given the honor to join the ranks of the Bacolod Press officially covering the MassKara Festival 2025, alongside our counterparts from print, television, and radio. For the first time, I truly felt that our work — capturing stories, moments, and emotions — was valued and respected.

We were provided with all-access IDs, special apparel, meals, and even dedicated seats during major events. These gestures, though simple, meant a lot. They reflected how the city genuinely understood what media needs to tell Bacolod’s story to the world. It was one of those rare instances when we, the storytellers, felt cared for — not merely as professionals doing our duty, but as part of the larger community moving in one rhythm.

To those behind this thoughtful coordination — the City Government of Bacolod, Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., and our ever-efficient PR liaison team — my sincerest gratitude. Your kindness did not go unnoticed.

A Personal Milestone Amid the Celebration

MassKara 2025 will forever hold a special place in my heart because it coincided with a milestone that I will never forget. The festival’s highlight weekend — October 19, 2025 — happened to be my 40th birthday.

That day, the skies were gray but kind. The rain, which had dampened several events in the previous days, stayed away. It felt symbolic — as if Bacolod itself decided to gift me a night of calm and celebration.

I may not have been able to join my team during the arena and street dancing competitions, but I was there in spirit, watching the live telecast on Facebook of the performances happening at the Paglaum Stadium and Bacolod Public Plaza, cheering from afar.

Later that evening, I found myself at the Lacson Tourism Strip, surrounded by music, laughter, and people celebrating under the MassKara lights. It was a perfect way to end my day — dancing in gratitude, smiling in reflection, and feeling deeply thankful for another year of life and for the city that continues to inspire me.

Resilience, Unity, and Love — The Heart of Bacolod

Through the rain and the long days of coverage, I witnessed a truth that I will carry long after the festival ended: MassKara is not simply a celebration; it is a reflection of Bacolod’s soul.

Born from hardship decades ago, it remains a reminder that joy can exist alongside struggle — that we can smile even when life tests us, not because everything is perfect, but because hope still lives within us.

In every dancer’s movement, in every beat of the drums, in every smile beneath the mask — there was faith. Faith that Bacolod will continue to rise, to unite, and to love.

Bacolod’s Spirit Lives On

As the city lights dimmed and the celebrations drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on how far Bacolod has come — from its humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of resilience and joy. The smiles that filled the streets, the music that echoed across the plazas, and the unity that bound everyone together were proof that MassKara’s heart beats stronger than ever.

MassKara 2025 was more than an event. It was a celebration of who we are — a city that celebrates together, supports one another, and finds beauty in every season.

For me, it was also a reminder to be grateful — for the friendships built, for the opportunities to tell our city’s story, and for the chance to live in a place where joy is not just performed, but felt from the heart.

This year’s MassKara may have ended, but its spirit continues — in every smile we share, in every story we tell, and in every Bacolodnon heart that continues to beat with one rhythm: One Smile. One City. One Heart.

*MassKara photos courtesy of the MassKara Festival 2025 Facebook Page