By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY – The Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. has formally unveiled the official logo and theme for this year’s MassKara Festival.
The logo, titled Mass-Kasingkasing, is paired with the unifying theme: “One Smile, One City, One Heart.”
According to organizers, the theme reflects Bacolod’s enduring spirit—one that smiles through adversity, unites as a city, and beats with pride and hope.
The logo was designed by Bacolod-born artist Paula Romaine Salmingo and is said to embody the cultural heartbeat of the city.
It draws inspiration from Bacolod’s history, particularly the M/V Don Juan maritime tragedy, which spurred the creation of the MassKara Festival as a symbol of resilience and optimism.
The design also honors the city’s culinary and creative identity, referencing everything from the sweetness of piaya and Negrense delicacies to the vibrant artistry that defines Bacolod’s cultural fabric.
Salmingo, an illustrator, fabric and textile designer, and graphic artist, previously co-designed the Electric MassKara 2019 logo.
She brings global design experience to the project while paying tribute to Bacolod’s heritage.
The new design also honors the late Eli Santiago, creator of the first MassKara logo.
Rodent Mitz Ascalon, foundation president and festival director, emphasized that this year’s celebration carries a deeper message of unity aligned with Mayor Greg Gasataya’s GUGMA agenda.
“This year’s celebration is more than a festival—it is a testament to unity,” Ascalon said in a statement.
The Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., the festival’s official organizer, has promised an exciting lineup of events, with full details to be announced soon.
The festival will run from Oct. 1 to 19, with a “Grand After Party” scheduled for Oct. 26.
One major highlight is the return of the Street Dance and Arena Competition to the Bacolod Public Plaza.
The competition will feature two categories: barangays and schools.
Performances will launch from the Paglaum Sports Complex and conclude at the Public Plaza.
