Despite the threat of rain, the spirit of Bacolod’s MassKara Festival 2025 shone bright on Sunday, October 19, with Barangay Tangub securing the Grand Championship title at the highly anticipated Arena and Streetdance Competition – Barangay Category.
Barangay Tangub’s vibrant performance, themed “The Evolving Spirit of MassKara,” captivated the judges and the massive crowd.
Under the creative direction of choreographers Joedem Casabuena and Mark Philip Lamirez, and Mask Designer Christopher John Puerta, the contingent took home the top prize of P1,000,000 in cash, plus additional bonuses from sponsors.
They also bagged the special awards for Best in Mask and Costume, Best in Music, Best in Theme/Concept, and Most Disciplined Contingent.
The arena competition, held at the Paglaum Stadium, drew an estimated crowd of nearly 30,000, including the culminating Street Dancing Parade and the announcement of winners at the Bacolod Public Plaza.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco spoke at the event, underscoring the festival’s enduring message. She stated that the MassKara Festival is a “testament to the city and its people’s capacity to rise above uncertainties.”
“The story of MassKara reminds the world that amidst hardship, there is hope. Here in Bacolod, you have turned challenges into celebration, and despair into determination,” Frasco told the crowd, adding that this spirit is what makes Bacolod truly the City of Smiles.
The other top winners in the competition were:
- First Runner-Up: Barangay Bata (P500,000 prize and Best in Introduction)
- Second Runner-Up: Barangay 29 (P300,000 prize)
Barangay 29 also claimed the separate championship title in the Community Dance and Merry Making category.
