PWDs Showcase Talents, Skills, Creativity, Abilities at MassKara Festival PuWeDe G! 2.0

MassKara Festival 2026’s commitment to making the celebration more inclusive took center stage at PuWeDe G! 2.0, where Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) showcased their talents, creativity, livelihood skills, and abilities at Ayala Malls Capitol Central.

Held in cooperation with the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) and the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), and co-presented by Hiraya Water Corporation Bacolod, the activity formed part of the festival’s “MassKara For All” thrust and its “Making MassKara Matter” initiative.

Rather than focusing solely on entertainment, PuWeDe G! 2.0 created a space where PWD participants could perform, display their products, demonstrate their skills, and take part in a celebration alongside other members of the community.

The afternoon featured the second edition of PWD Got Talent, with participants presenting performances ranging from singing and dancing to lip-sync and character interpretation.

Ivan Dela Cruz was named champion after performing “My Way.” He received ₱10,000 in cash, a gift certificate from Metro Supermarket, and additional prizes from Ever-Young.

Kemberly Espares, who performed her own spoken poetry piece, placed first runner-up, while Ma. Morena Abillanosa, who sang “Kaligayahan Mo’y, Kaligayahan Ko Rin,” finished as second runner-up.

Other finalists were Agripino Matti, Reymar Mojica, Mark Parisan, Reyjohn Domingo, Aquileo Villacen, Crisrio Nicole Tiangson, Rian Hollero, Rolando Fernandez, Jimmuel Diogenes, John Paul Lequit, and Ruby Alvia, who received consolation prizes.

The activity also featured the Product Expo Competition, highlighting the creativity and livelihood skills of participating PWD cooperatives.

Barangay Felisa was named champion for its presentation of a pillow made using recycled foam as filling. Barangay Granada placed first runner-up with its organically grown chillies used to make Organic Sinamak, while Barangay Handumanan placed second runner-up for its fuzzy wire crafts.

The PWD Cooperative Kiosk also provided participating cooperatives from different barangays with an opportunity to showcase and promote handmade products, crafts, food items, accessories, and other livelihood products. Massage services from Quiet Quarters Massage and Negros Blind Massage were also featured.

The celebration included gift-giving and other community support activities. Gift bags were distributed to students through the support of Service First, Sucere, Philippine Dental Association–Negros Chapter, Pocari Sweat, and Gardenia.

The Office of the Vice President also turned over 10 wheelchairs during the activity, while Rice Box for Everyone extended support to the celebration.

Raffle prizes were provided by Coffee Guys, Fiesta sa Syudad, Borough Lasik Center, and Metro Supermarket.

For MassKara Festival 2026, activities such as PuWeDe G! 2.0 place attention on a part of the festival experience that extends beyond masks, music, dance, and spectacle.* (MF2026)