1st MassKara Mask Higantes Competition 2025

A giant celebration of Bacolod creativity

The City of Smiles made history with the 1st MassKara Mask-Higantes Competition 2025, a colorful and heartwarming celebration of local artistry and community spirit.

Held in partnership with Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. headed by Rodney Mitz Ascalon, the event gathered six barangays and one school, each presenting two towering “Mask-Higante” that embodied this year’s theme, “Toto and Inday sa MassKara.”

Each puppet pair represented Toto and Inday — two symbolic Bacolodnons reflecting the city’s everyday slices of life during the MassKara Festival, from the cheerful Manug-Inasal vendors and tireless Manuglibods to the MassKara Dancers, Artists, and Photographers who bring color and joy to the streets.

Participating Artists and Entries:
Stephen Efundo (Barangay Tangub) Presented Artists Making Masks & Costumes, showing the creativity and craftsmanship of Bacolod’s local mask-makers who breathe life into the city’s most iconic festival symbol.

Josh Descatamiento (Barangay 11) Brought to life Festival Goers and Tourists, a vibrant tribute to the people who fill Bacolod’s streets with energy and smiles during the MassKara season.

Alpha Grace Samillano (Bacolod City College) Showcased Photographers, honoring the storytellers behind the lens who capture Bacolod’s beauty, spirit, and color through their art.

Marven Galea (Barangay 3) Featured the Manug-Inasal, celebrating Bacolod’s world-famous chicken inasal vendors whose food and warmth are part of every MassKara memory.

Aldrin Pasuelme (Barangay Bata) Portrayed MassKara Dancers, the festival’s heartbeat, symbolizing the rhythm, movement, and unity that make Bacolod’s celebration world-renowned.

Zeus Birondo (Barangay Sum-ag) Highlighted Mga Manuglibods, representing the hardworking vendors and street peddlers who bring life and hustle to every corner of the city.
Christopher John Puerta (Barangay Villamonte) Electrified the crowd with Electric MassKara, depicting the city’s dazzling neon-lit street parties and modern festival vibe that continues to evolve each year.

Roderick Dela Rosa (Bacolod City College) Presented Sinadya sa Peryahan, a nostalgic glimpse of local fairs and carnival fun that capture the essence of Filipino celebration and joy.

Each pair of Toto and Inday puppets stood tall and proud, each telling a story of everyday Bacolod life during MassKara. Their vibrant costumes, intricate masks, and expressive designs amazed spectators and reflected the city’s creativity, resilience, and community spirit.

In her opening message, Ms. Tey, President of the Art Association of Bacolod, expressed gratitude to the Bacolod Gugma Foundation, the Bacolod City Government, and the participating artists. She also shared that this year marks the golden anniversary of the Art Association of Bacolod, highlighting its ongoing commitment to promoting local art and culture.

Vice Mayor Kalaw Puentevella, speaking on behalf of Mayor Greg Gasataya, congratulated all participants and praised their artistry. He said, “Each of you represents the heart and smile of Bacolod. You are all winners tonight.”

Competition Results:
Grand Champion
Barangay Villamonte
Prize: ₱50,000, Certificate, and Trophy
First Runner-Up
Barangay 11
Prize: ₱30,000, Certificate, and Trophy
Second Runner-Up
Barangay Tangub
Prize: ₱20,000, Certificate, and Trophy

All other participants received consolation prizes and certificates of participation.
The 1st MassKara Mask-Higantes Competition 2025 is envisioned to become a new tradition of the MassKara Festival, celebrating Bacolod’s unity, creativity, and ever-smiling spirit.* (BGFI)