Seven intricately designed masks and costumes from participating barangays in this year’s MassKara Festival were unveiled at Robinsons Place Bacolod on Sunday, Oct. 13.
These vibrant ensembles will take center stage during the Street Dance and Arena Competition at the Paglaum Grandstand on Oct. 27, a press release from the Bacolod Yuhum Foundation said.
Barangays Granada, Bata, 6, 12, 18, 21 and 35 showcased their creations, which were judged based on design, craftsmanship, and visual impact.
Festival-goers enjoyed a sneak peek of the participants’ vibrant costumes, sparking excitement for the main event, the press release said.
Judging the event were visual artist and Vice President of Mangkas Group of Artists Jo Aron Espinosa, renowned fashion designer John Ditching, former MassKara Festival Director (2013-2015) and current Director for Internationalization and External Relations of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University Rhoderick Samonte, Roy’s Hotel and Convention Center president John Victor Go, and Creative Consultant of ELEKTROIKA Diva Doc. Ma. Xenia Guanzon.
Among those present during the unveiling were Councilor Israel Salanga, MassKara Festival Chairman Jojie Dingcong, Festival Director for Cultural and Accredited Events Kuster Y. Cadagat, Festival Director for Good Governance, Finance, Procurement, and Administration, Jericho Redil, and Chairperson of the MassKara Festival Street Dance and Arena Competition, Dr. Baldomero F. Defensor Jr.
Also in attendance were Robinsons Place Bacolod representatives Krista Lapore, Mall Marketing Officer; Mary Jo San Marte, Mall Operations Manager; and Fiona Oro, Assistant Regional Marketing Officer.*