The MassKara Festival in the Philippines

(A concept Paper )

Presented to:

Ms. Marissa P.Pueyo

English for Academic Professional Purposes

(EAPP)

Submitted by:

Genie Mae Ferjie

HUMSS 11-VENUS ICNHS -SHS

January 22,2024
 •INTRODUCTION

This concept paper describes the Masskara Festival in the Philippines, including its definition,
background information, the things to do during this festival,its benefits, and its historical
background. The MassKara Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration held annually in the city
of Bacolod, located in the Philippines. The word “MassKara” is derived from the Hiligaynon word
“mask” or “face,” which is fitting given the festival’s focus on masks and costumes. The event is a
lively showcase of the city’s rich cultural heritage, with participants donning elaborate costumes
and masks to dance, sing, and perform in the streets.The festival has a long history, dating back
to 1980 when it was first held as a way to boost the city’s morale during a period of economic
hardship. Since then, it has grown into a beloved tradition, attracting visitors from all over the
country and beyond. The festival typically takes place in October, with events spread out over
several days.The event has a rich history, having started as a means of raising spirits in the city
during a period of bad times due to the economy. Since then, it has developed into a well-known
tourist destination that brings in tourists from all over the world who come to take in the lively
culture and extensive traditions of the city.

•BODY

The Masskara Festival is a annual celebration held in Bacolod City, Philippines, every October. It’s
known for its colorful masks and costumes worn by participants, which reflect the festival’s
theme of joy and resilience. The festival is not associated with any religious occasion, but instead
serves as a tribute to the region’s history of overcoming adversity. The “smiling mask” symbolizes
hope, optimism, and resilience, and has become a main feature of the festival. The Masskara
Festival has become a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and
commitment to overcoming challenges.

The MassKara Festival Is a celebration that takes place in the Philippines, known for its colorful
masks and street dancing competitions. Thefestival has evolved over the years, incorporating
various designs and influences from different cultures. One of the main events of the festival is
the street dancing competition, where groups of dancers from different communities compete
against each other by performing impressive dance routines. The dancers wear colorful
costumes and masks, and the performances are often accompanied by Filipino or Latin
music.Another popular event is the Electric MassKara, which takes place at night and features
dancers wearing masks with colorful lights. The festival also includes street parties, a beauty
pageant, food competitions, carnivals, drum competitions, bugle corps contents, sports events,
trade fairs, musical concerts, garden shows, and many more.To accommodate the festival, major
roads are closed to make way for participants and visitors. The public is advised to take note of
the road closures to avoid delays, accidents, and confusion.

The Masskara Festival originated in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, which is known for its sugar
indu stry. However, the festival has a history marked by tragedy, as it was created during a
difficult period for the province’s economy. In the 1980s, the introduction of sugar alternatives
from the United States led to a decline in the local sugar industry, causing economic hardship for
the province. In response, citizens began crafting masks to sell to tourists for additional
income.Tragedy struck further when the ship MV Don Juan sank in the Tablas Strait, resulting in
numerous casualties among Negros residents. To boost morale, the local government of Bacolod
collaborated with the city’s artistic community, civic organizations, and businesses to create a
“festival of smiles.” The first Masskara Festival was held on October 19, 1980, to bring back
smiles and lift the spirits of residents.Today, the Masskara Festival is a popular tourist attraction
that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to overcoming challenges. The
festival is known for its colorful masks and costumes worn by participants, which reflect the
festival’s theme of joy and resilience. The “smiling mask” symbolizes hope, optimism, and
resilience, and has become a main feature of the festival.

To address this problem, the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has undertaken a significant
augmentation of its police force. They have added 1,013 additional policemen to reinforce
security measures during the festival’s culminating week. This augmentation includes 447
officers from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) and 566 officers from
Panay Island. The purpose of this increased police presence is to ensure the safety and security
of everyone participating in or attending the MassKara Festival.
Photos of the aftermath of the Masskara Festival in Bacolod city are circulating on social media,
showing a significant amount of garbage scattered across the grounds in front of the capitol
building. The festival’s closing ceremony and fireworks display took place at the government
center, which was left littered with trash after the events ended. Some attendees have shared
photos of the mess, sparking criticism and concerns about the lack of trash bins and the city’s
ability to manage large events. In response, local authorities have announced plans to hire street
cleaners to clean up the area and the city as a whole.

Photos of the aftermath of the Masskara Festival in Bacolod city are circulating on social media,
showing a significant amount of garbage scattered across the grounds in front of the capitol
building. The festival’s closing ceremony and fireworks display took place at the government
center, which was left littered with trash after the events ended. Some attendees have shared
photos of the mess, sparking criticism and concerns about the lack of trash bins and the city’s
ability to manage large events. In response, local authorities have announced plans to hire street
cleaners to clean up the area and the city as a whole.

The city government of Bacolod has received P23 million for its greening program, which aims to
plant one million trees in the city over the next five years. As part of its clean and green
campaign, the city has also launched a contest to find the cleanest village in Bacolod. This
initiative comes at a time when Filipinos are becoming more aware of the importance of
environmental protection, following the closure of Boracay Island due to its poor environmental
state. Boracay has since reopened, and efforts continue to maintain its cleanliness.

Problem 1: The need for heightened security measures during the MassKara Festival 2023 in
Bacolod City.

Solution 1: The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has added 1,013 additional policemen to
reinforce security measures during the festival.

Problem 2: Garbage-ridden areas in front of the government center after the Masskara Festival.

Solution 2: The city government has implemented a greening program and launched a clean and
green campaign to address environmental concerns.
 One key difference between the two is that problem 1 focuses on security and safety, while
problem 2 focuses on cleanliness and environmental impact. The solutions also differ, with
solution 1 involving an increased police presence and solution 2 involving a greening program
and clean and green campaign.

The cause In this statement is the evolution of the Masskara Festival into a grand celebration of
life, resilience, and the vibrant culture of the Filipino people. This evolution has led to various
effects, which can be identified as follows:

One effect is the festival’s significant economic impact. The surge in tourism during the Masskara
season brings about increased revenue for businesses such as hotels, restaurants, souvenir
shops, and transportation services. This influx of tourists also benefits local artisans and vendors
who profit from selling masks, costumes, and other festival-related items.

Another effect is the festival’s role as a symbol of unity and identity for the people of Bacolod. As
residents come together to celebrate their city and culture, a sense of belonging and pride is
fostered within the community. The festival’s theme of resilience in the face of adversity serves
as a source of inspiration and motivation for the residents.

In the City of Smiles, there are 39 exciting things you can do to fully enjoy the colorful festival
this year. First, you can embrace the festive spirit by wearing vibrant and uniquely-made masks.
Indulge in the mouthwatering famous chicken inasal at the kiosks around the public plaza or the
Manokan Country. For thrill-seekers, there are enthralling rides like the Ferris wheel, carousel,
octopus ride, and horror train at the carnival site near the Pope John Paul II Tower. Don’t miss
out on the MassKara Red Party at the Lacson Tourism Strip and the fascinating Electric MassKara.
Witness the spectacular National Fireworks Display Competition and be amazed by the lively
choreography and creative costumes during the MassKara Street Dance and Arena Competition.
Join street parties with your friends and enjoy live concerts and bands. Experience the vibrant
Nights of Mardi Gras and feed Koi fishes at the Bacolod Government Center. Support your
favorite candidates in the MassKara Festival Queen Pageant and choose your bets for Ginoong
Bacolod 2018. Show your love for animals at the MassKara All Breed Fun Match Dog Show and
check out the golf tournament. Feel the rhythm at the drumbeating competition and groove to
the beat of Electric Zumba. Get ready for a thrilling KPop concert and celebrate with merry-
making and drinking along the streets. Capture memorable moments with selfies and groufies at
 Bacolod landmarks. Take a tour at the Bacolod Government Center for more amusement rides
and food trip. Don’t forget to visit the Bacolod showroom for awesome souvenirs and enjoy
MassKara-sale shopping in malls. Meet and greet your favorite celebrities at MassKara mall
shows and indulge in the sweet delicacies at pasalubong centers. Keep in mind that there might
be long walks and road closures, so prepare accordingly. Visit the famous San Sebastian
Cathedral and have a MassKara shirt printed with your chosen design. Explore the MassKara
trade fair at the public plaza for affordable items and try the delicious street food of Bacolod. Be
captivated by the breathtaking Acrobat Entertainment Show and take a leisurely stroll at the
Provincial Capitol Lagoon. Invite your friends and relatives to join the MassKara Job Fair and
watch the exciting dance showdown competition. Enjoy late nights at coffee shops and fast food
chains, and grab lots of freebies from events and corporate sponsors. Don’t miss the chance to
see prominent personalities during the opening and closing ceremonies of the festivity. Lastly,
bring your kids to the MassKara Treat Children’s Party for a fun-filled time.

• Conclusion

In conclusion, the Masskara Festival in Bacolod City offers a multitude of experiences that cater
to people of all ages and interests. From thrilling rides and live performances to delicious food
and unique shopping opportunities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The festival’s focus
on celebrating the local culture and promoting unity and resilience creates a sense of pride and
belonging within the community. Attending the Masskara Festival is not just a chance to have
fun, but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of Bacolod
City. So, mark your calendars and get ready to join in the festivities at the next Masskara Festival!
 •REFERENCE

Description

Business Mirror ( October 26,2023), The Masskara Festival in Bacolod: Step into its meaningful
history and exciting activities

Retrieved from:

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2023/10/16/masskara-festival/

Retrieved on: November 28,2023

Legarde L. ( September 12,2022) MassKara Festival: The Ultimate Guide

Retrieved from:

https://hicaps.com.ph/masskara-festival/#:~:text=MassKara%20Dance%20Festival%20is%20a,is
%20its%20street%20dance%20competition.

Retrieved on: November 28,2023

Problem and Solution

Philippines New Agency( October 23,2017) Pres. Duterte extols Bacolod on its 38 th MassKara
festival

Retrieved from:

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1013532
Retrieved on : November 28,2023

Cause and Effect

Andrade B. (Feb 21, 2020) Masskara Festival (Benefits Advantage)

Retrieved from :

https://www.scribd.com/presentation/448259403/Masskara-Festival

Retrieved on : November 23,2023

Chronological Order

Sunnexdesk (19th Oct, 2018), 39 things to do during MassKara Festival

Retrieved from:

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/lifestyle/39-things-to-do-during-masskara-festival

Retrieved on: November 28,2023