Bacolod’s Masskara Festival dancers have received commendations from City Mayor Greg Gasataya and local officials for their outstanding performance at the 2026 Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade in Hong Kong on Tuesday, February 17. Mayor Gasataya expressed his pride, saying, “We want to commend our Masskara dancers who performed in Hong Kong. We are very happy and proud.” He emphasized that their performance not only honors Bacolod but also represents the Philippines on the global stage, adding that he hopes the achievement will encourage more visitors to attend this year’s Masskara Festival. The 40-member group hails from Barangay Tangub, with the delegation led by Tourism Officer Teresa Manalili. They flew to Hong Kong on February 15 and are expected to return on February 20. Beyond the Chinese New Year parade, the Bacolod Masskara dancers also performed at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Stadium on February 18 and 19. Travel and accommodation expenses were sponsored by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, while logistical support and allowances were provided by the Bacolod City Local Government Unit (LGU). This marks the second time Bacolod has sent dancers to the international event; Barangay Granada representatives participated in 2024. In interviews, members of the Filipino community in Hong Kong shared their support and joy, noting that seeing the Masskara dancers reminded them of home after being away for some time. “We are happy to watch their performance, every time we see them perform it feels like we’re still in Bacolod,” said Lyn Bermejo, a Filipina overseas worker spending holidays in HongKong. (Bacolod City Communications Office)