BACOLOD CITY – The Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. pledged to honor the MassKara Festival’s cultural roots while embracing innovation and collaboration in this highly-urbanized city.

“This year, we’re bringing back the heart of MassKara — the locals,” foundation president and festival director Rodney Ascalon said in Monday’s press briefing.

The city government and the foundation have officially partnered for this year’s festival, aiming to highlight local pride, creativity, and inclusivity throughout the 19-day celebration from Oct. 1 to 19.

Ascalon said that from the festival’s logo to the theme music and music video, they are tapping homegrown talent to make the celebration a true reflection of this city’s spirit.

The upcoming MassKara will feature expanded competitions and inclusive events, with a stronger emphasis on sectoral performances and grassroots participation.

Ascalon said that all 61 barangays are encouraged to join, as the festival seeks to unify diverse community groups under one vibrant celebration.

A major highlight is the return of the Street Dance and Arena Competition to the public plaza, with two key categories – barangays and schools. The Paglaum Sports Complex will serve as the launch point for performances, culminating at the plaza.

Mayor Greg Gasataya underscored the significance of this move, stressing that people remember dancing there during past festivals.

“We need to give the plaza the importance it deserves – not just for tradition, but for community and local economy,” the mayor said, adding that it will also boost the sales of kiosk owners in the area.

To address prior concerns about flooding and accessibility, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has committed to installing drainage systems at the plaza ahead of the festival, according to Gasataya.

Gasataya called for wider participation, encouraging involvement from all sectors – including vendors, senior citizens, youth, and grassroots communities – not just as spectators but as active contributors to the event’s success.

After one week, the city will host a Grand After Party on Oct. 26, featuring competition winners and cultural performers as a tribute to everyone who helped make the festival possible.

Ascalon noted that 60 percent of the festival’s planning is now complete, with budgetary discussions ongoing and sponsor negotiations in progress.

The foundation is conducting workshops and training for production staff, agency coordinators, and volunteers to ensure smooth execution.

“As someone who calls Bacolod home, MassKara is close to my heart,” he said. “It’s a 19-day live event – anything can happen. That’s why we’re investing heavily in preparation and coordination.”

The full festival theme and official lineup will be unveiled at the grand media launching on Sept. 5.

In its commitment to good governance, the foundation assured the city government of transparency, accountability, promotion of local talent, global positioning, inclusive collaboration, and long-term sustainability for this year’s festival.

Gasataya said that they look forward to an even grander MassKara Festival this year, one worthy of the city’s culture, heritage, and growing global reputation.