The vibrant spirit of Bacolod City's MassKara Festival is set to shine on another major stage as its champion dancers prepare for a performance at Cebu's renowned Sinulog Festival in January 2026.
Champion Contingent to Represent Bacolod
Secretary to the Mayor, Atty. Marty Go, confirmed that the city received a formal invitation from the Sinulog Festival director. The honor of representing Bacolod will fall to the Barangay Tangub dancers, who clinched victory in both the street dance and arena competitions of the 2025 MassKara Festival.
In a significant show of support, the Sinulog Festival organizer has committed to providing P1.5 million for the city's performing contingent. Preparations are already in full swing, with Mayor's Office officials, the City Tourism Office, and Barangay Tangub leaders having convened to finalize travel details.
Sinulog Performance Schedule and Contingent Size
The delegation's itinerary is now set. The dancers will travel to Cebu City on January 16, 2026. Their main performance is scheduled for the festival's grand parade on January 18. The group, led by Barangay Captain Noli Villarosa, is a substantial force, comprising at least 200 members. They are scheduled to return to Bacolod on January 20.
More Invitations: Iloilo and Hong Kong on the Horizon
The cultural exchange for Bacolod's festival ambassadors may not end in Cebu. Atty. Go also revealed that an invitation has been extended by the organizers of Iloilo City's Dinagyang Festival for an event on January 23, 2026. This potential participation would focus more on an electric MassKara competition, though officials state there is no confirmation yet if this will proceed.
Furthermore, the city has received an invitation from the Hong Kong government for an event on February 15, 2026. Details for this potential international showcase are still being finalized, marking another exciting opportunity to promote Bacolod's iconic festival culture abroad.
This series of invitations highlights the growing national and international recognition of the MassKara Festival as a premier cultural product of the Philippines. It promises not only a spectacular display for festival-goers in Cebu but also a significant promotional boost for Bacolod City's tourism and cultural heritage.
