By CESAR JOLITO III

Bacolod City’s MassKara Festival 2025 was formally launched with the unveiling of its official logo, “Mass-Kasingkasing,” and the announcement of this year’s theme: “One Smile, One City, One Heart.”

Organizers said the theme highlights the enduring Bacolodnon spirit — “one smile that inspires, one city that unites, and one heart that beats with pride and hope.”

The newly revealed logo, Mass-Kasingkasing, goes beyond visual artistry.

It reflects the city’s culture, traditions and resilience, tracing its roots to the tragic sinking of the M/V Don Juan in 1980 — a turning point that gave birth to the festival as a symbol of hope.

The design also pays tribute to Bacolod’s culinary and creative identity, from Negrense delicacies like piaya to the craftsmanship of local artisans. It honors the pioneering work of the late Eli Santiago, who created the first MassKara logo that helped define the city’s “festival of smiles.”

The artwork was designed by Bacolod-born creative Paula Romaine O. Salmingo, an illustrator, fabric and textile designer, and graphic artist.

Salmingo, who also co-designed the Electric MassKara 2019 logo, said she wanted to capture Bacolod’s pride and heritage while bringing in her global design experience.

Symbol of unity

“This year’s celebration is more than a festival — it is a testament to unity,” said Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. President and Festival Director Rodney Mitz Ascalon.

“With One Smile, One City, One Heart, we honor the Bacolodnon spirit that continues to shine, no matter what.”

The theme also reflects the vision of Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya, whose GUGMA agenda inspired the creation of the Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., now serving as the official festival organizer.

A full lineup of events and activities for MassKara 2025 will be announced in the coming weeks./CJ, WDJ