Bacolod, you were aweSM

Celebrating the MassKara Festival in its own unique and exciting way


One of the Philippines’ longest festivals —MassKara— was also the most awesome one as SM City Bacolod celebrated over two weekends of fun and celebrity sightings. SM City Bacolod celebrated the MassKara Festival in its own unique and exciting way, joining in the festivities weeks ahead. 

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SM City Bacolod embellishes its surroundings with vibrant MassKara-inspired ornaments, creating a lively festival atmosphere

1. MassKara mall decorations
SM City Bacolod adorned its premises with vibrant and eye-catching MassKara-themed decorations, including colorful masks, garlands, and festive adornments. These decorations created a lively ambiance, truly capturing the spirit of the festival.

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Steven Tan and Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez enjoy a lively moment with MassKara dancers at SM City Bacolod's AweSM Inasal Fest, one of the many mall events held during the MassKara Festival 2023

2. MassKara performances
The mall also hosted live performances featuring MassKara dancers and musicians to entertain and captivate visitors. These performances included the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, an illustrious 75-piece ensemble. They turned SM City Bacolod into their concert hall, treating music-loving Negrenses to timeless symphonies and contemporary Filipino compositions. This balance between tradition and innovation is a testament to the orchestra’s adaptability and cultural significance.

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Top row from left to right: Lifestyle editor Arnel Patawaran, Steven Tan, Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, businessman Philip Laude, and chef JJ Yulo,  Columnist Pepper Teehankee, influencers Small Laude, Tim Yap, and Negrense chef JP Anglo.

3. Bacolod chicken inasal fest conversations
SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, who was captivated by the Negrense food culture, hosted a Bacolod Chicken Inasal lunch for Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, celebrated chefs JP Anglo and JJ Yulo, influencers Small Laude and Tim Yap, businessman Philip Laude, lifestyle editor Arnel Patawaran, and columnist Pepper Teehankee. Their conversations about how Bacolod City should be the food capital of the Philippines will be uploaded online by SM Supermalls.

4. MassKara parade of smiles
Drawing countless admirers, including Tan, who chaired the board of judges, the MassKara Parade of Smiles was a dazzling display of artistic craftsmanship by the different barangays. Elaborately designed masks adorned the faces of performers, each telling a unique story and reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Bacolod. The parade enchanted spectators and celebrated the boundless creativity of the city's talented artisans.

Tan noted the warmth of the Negrenses and their unwavering support for SM. “We have always believed in not just building malls but creating extraordinary spaces that foster connection, timeless memories, and opportunities for growth. Bacolod City has become an integral part of the SM family, and we are honored to be part of this incredible journey.”