BACOLOD CITY – The 46th MassKara Festival opened in grand fashion today, October 1, with an estimated 50,000 people filling the Bacolod City Government Center grounds and another 1,500 gathering at the Bacolod Public Plaza, according to Bacolod City Police Office Director Col. Joeresty Coronica. The historic dual-venue kickoff featured crowd-drawing performances by Silent Sanctuary and Elias J TV Band at the Government Center, while the plaza came alive with the music of Repakol Band. Mayor Greg Gasataya led the opening rites and called for a moment of silence in remembrance of those affected by the powerful earthquake that struck Cebu yesterday. He also announced that the city government will send assistance to the province. In his message, Gasataya emphasized the meaning of the festival for Bacolodnons. “MassKara is about the resilience of the Bacolodnon. We remember the fire that struck Barangay 27 and many other challenges, yet the essence of MassKara is resilience. It is through this spirit that we continue to stand tall and celebrate life together,” the mayor said. Joining the mayor at the BCGC opening were Councilors Celia Flor, Bobby Rojas, Pao Sy, Homer Bais, and Jason Villarosa. At the Public Plaza, the program was led by Acting City Vice Mayor Caesar Distrito together with Councilors Israel Salanga and Em Ang, and Association of Barangay Captains President Lady Gles Gonzales-Pallen. A fireworks display lit up the skies over both venues, officially marking the start of the 19-day celebration under the theme “One Smile, One City, One Heart.” Adding star power to the kickoff were singer-actress Ara Mina and dancer-actor Paul Salas, who performed in both venues. They were joined by a wide lineup of local artists, barangay-based dancers, and performers representing various sectoral, sports, and cultural events. Festival Director Rodney Mitz Ascalon described the opening as a powerful symbol of Bacolod’s spirit of resilience and unity. “MassKara has always been about hope, joy, and gugma. This year, we open not just with music and lights, but with a promise—that Bacolod will always rise stronger, together,” Ascalon said. The Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., which partners closely with the LGU, underscored its thrust of making this year’s celebration “a MassKara for All” by ensuring that sectoral groups—such as women, children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly—are given space and visibility in the festivities. Now in its 46th year, the MassKara Festival—born in 1980 amid economic crisis and tragedy—continues to stand as Bacolod’s banner celebration of life, culture, and triumph over challenges.