THE Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., overall organizer of the 2025 MassKara Festival, will limit the participating barangays and schools in this year's edition of the street and arena dance competition.
Festival director Rodney Ascalon said in the barangay category, participation will be limited to 15 barangays.
In the school category, he said it will be limited to seven elementary schools, marking the category’s comeback after a five-year hiatus, the last being in 2019.
In 2023, a total of seven barangays participated in the street and arena dance competition.
Ascalon said they will hold a meeting with barangay representatives on August 5, and with school participants on August 6.
For those interested in joining, he said they will be required to submit a letter of intent to the foundation by August 10.
The Bacolod City Government earlier announced that the 46th MassKara Festival will officially open on October 1 and will end on October 19, 2025.
The highlights of the festival are set for October 17, 18, and 19.
The earlier festival dates were announced to address long-standing concerns from vendors and small entrepreneurs who have faced challenges due to unpredictable weather during the latter part of October.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said that an after-party will be held on October 26 to thank all Bacolodnons and participants of the 2025 MassKara Festival.
Moreover, Ascalon said this year’s MassKara Festival will also shine a spotlight on inclusivity and representation, with events and activities highlighting the contributions of various sectors, including the LGBTQ+ community, senior citizens, youth, and the vibrant artists’ community, whose creativity and cultural expression continue to bring MassKara to life.
Ascalon emphasized the importance of expanding the celebration’s reach.
“MassKara has always been about unity in joy. This year, we are making a stronger effort to ensure that every sector is seen and celebrated,” Ascalon said.
The foundation will announce the launch of the MassKara 2025 logo and music video in September 2025. (MAP)