By CESAR JOLITO III
Watchmen Daily Journal’s multimedia journalist Cesar Jolito III clinched the Best in Photo Essay Award for his striking visual entry that portrayed the energy, colors and emotions of the recently concluded 46th MassKara Festival in the first-ever MassKara Media Awards held at the Bacolod City Government Center lobby on Saturday night, October 25.
Jolito’s entry in the Print/Online Publication Category was recognized for its compelling storytelling that highlighted the “Spirit of Resilience” through grand champion Barangay Tangub’s performance, “The Evolving Spirit of MassKara.”
His work vividly portrayed the color, creativity and unity that define Bacolod’s world-renowned festival — celebrating the enduring smiles and spirit of the City of Smiles.
Meanwhile, Watchmen Daily Journal’s sister company, Panay News, won the MassKara Special Supplement of the Year Award in the Print Category.
The award was received by Panay News senior reporter Mae Singuay.
Panay News columnist Erwin “Ambo” Delilan earned the Best in MassKara Feature Award for his compelling narrative that captured Bacolod’s resilience and enduring optimism — the very heart of the “Festival of Smiles.”
Festival director and Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. President Rodney Mitz Ascalon lauded the honorees for their dedication, saying the awards were meant to “recognize the storytellers who share Bacolod’s smiles with the world.”
Each awardee received a specially designed Jojo Vito trophy, a symbolic representation of the MassKara Festival’s artistry and cultural pride.
Public Relations Director Louise Lian Bobe commended the awardees for “keeping the MassKara story alive through their commitment to authentic storytelling and cultural pride.”
The MassKara Media Awards mark the beginning of a new tradition — one that honors Bacolod’s storytellers who ensure that the city’s smiles continue to shine beyond the festival streets.
The awards night brought together journalists, broadcasters and digital creators from across Bacolod and Negros Island.
Watchmen Daily Journal and Panay News’ success in the inaugural MassKara Media Awards highlights the enduring excellence of the local press in championing truth, creativity and community — values that continue to define Bacolod’s “Festival of Smiles.”/CJ, WDJ