MassKara Festival ’26 Set on Oct.1–18

May 21, 2026

Mayor Greg Gasataya discusses plans with members of the Bacolod Gugma Foundation Incorporated, led by President Rodney Ascalon (seated, second from right), for this year’s MassKara Festival slated from October 1 to 18, 2026. Also joining the meeting are City Administrator Mark Steven Mayo, City Legal Officer Karol Joseph Chiu, and city tourism officers.*

The Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. (BGFI) recently met with Mayor Greg Gasataya to present plans and preparations for this year’s highly anticipated MassKara Festival celebration.

Mayor Gasataya said he is set to meet with members of the City Council to discuss preparations and ensure seamless coordination among travel agencies, hotels, and other stakeholders for the city’s annual festival.

“The impact of last year’s activities was remarkable, including the school street dancing category, which I would definitely recommend retaining in this year’s celebration,” the mayor said.

During the meeting, BGFI President Rodney Ascalon informed the mayor that the MassKara Festival 2026 festivities will officially run from October 1 to 18.

“We are elated to have been given the go signal and the trust of the Mayor to begin preparations for this year’s MassKara celebration. We are also excited to further improve this year’s festivities based on the lessons and experiences gained from last year’s celebration,” Ascalon said.

Pre-MassKara activities will be held throughout the festival period, while the major events and highlights are scheduled from October 9 to 18. Meanwhile, the Closing and Awarding Ceremonies are set on October 25. BGFI members also expressed their gratitude to Mayor Gasataya for his continued support and confidence in the organization.

The meeting likewise served as an opportunity to discuss various initiatives and action plans aimed at further enhancing this year’s celebration following a comprehensive assessment of last year’s festival.* (Bacolod City Communications Office text & photos)