Despite the heavy rains, young dancers from Bacolod City’s public elementary schools brought color and energy to the streets as they performed ahead of the final day of the city’s biggest celebration — the MassKara Festival.
Learners from seven public schools showcased resilience and joy through colorful masks and vibrant costumes, marking the return of the school category in the arena and street dance competition after six years.
In a statement Sunday, Mayor Greg Gasataya praised the children for their dedication. “To every dancer who stood in the rain and still lifted their head with pride, know this — your efforts will never be taken for granted. We see your sacrifice, we feel the weight you carry and we stand with you as a people who know the strength it takes beneath that mask,” he said.
The arena competition was held Saturday at Paglaum Sports Complex, followed by a parade to Bacolod Public Plaza where winners were announced. Estefania Elementary School (ES) took the championship for the second time, along with awards for Best in Theme/Concept and Best in Music.
Their performance, “Dancing in the Rain, Through a Child’s Eye,” earned them PHP920,000 in total cash prizes, including the PHP750,000 champion’s prize, a PHP150,000 participation incentive, and PHP20,000 from DITO Telecommunity.
Teacher Jackelyn Montes, one of the choreographers, credited teamwork for their win. “Everyone was very welcoming, like one big family. That made it easier for us to guide the children,” she said.
Paglaum Village ES and Asuncion L. Lizares ES placed first and second runners-up, receiving PHP300,000 and PHP200,000, respectively. Paglaum Village ES also bagged the Best in Community Dance, Most Disciplined Contingent, and Best in Introduction Video awards, while Asuncion L. Lizares ES won Best in Mask and Costume.
The 19-day festival concludes Sunday with the barangay category competition featuring 10 village contingents.