300 more police deployed for MassKara Festival highlights

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — A total of 300 additional security personnel were deployed here on Thursday to ensure safety and order during the highlights of the MassKara Festival from Oct. 17 to 19.

The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) welcomed the augmentation personnel from Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 in Iloilo and Siquijor during a personnel accounting at the BCPO headquarters.

These personnel reinforced security operations, increased police visibility, and strengthened law enforcement throughout the city during the festivities.

Police Col. Joeresty Coronica expressed his gratitude to the augmentation forces for their commitment and readiness to serve the people of Bacolod during one of the country’s grandest festivals.

In his message, Coronica emphasized the importance of teamwork, vigilance, and professionalism in fulfilling their duties.

An initial 1,500 security personnel were deployed starting Oct. 1 to maintain peace and order throughout this year’s celebration.

Meanwhile, Mark Garcia, site director of the Lacson Tourism Strip, assured that safety measures and contingency plans are in place in case of emergencies, as full road closure was implemented along Lacson Street on Thursday.

Given the recent series of tremors that also affected the city, Garcia said evacuation points have been prepared.

Marshals will guide revelers through safe lanes marked with glow tape and barricades, and the public is reminded not to re-enter stages or tents until safety officials declare them secure.

Six stages were set up along the Lacson Tourism Strip for the Music Festival, as well as food and corporate kiosks.

Also, in a press briefing at the Seda Capitol Central on Thursday, Garcia said they have coordinated with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) regarding flood mitigation in case of heavy rainfall.

“We’re hoping there will be no flooding,” Garcia said.

He noted that security is also in place as the area is guarded by around 200 police officers.

The highlight of the opening night on Oct. 17 is the Electric MassKara Float Parade, which will start at 6 p.m. from Megaworld, pass through the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), and return to Megaworld, where the floats will remain on display.

Participants include barangays Cabug, Granada, Mansilingan, 2, 5, 8, 12, 17, 19, 32, 33, and 34.

This year’s floats are designed around the theme “One Smile. One City. One Heart.”, each representing a distinct aspect of Bacolod’s identity.

“One Smile” pays tribute to the city’s colorful festivals such as Bacolodiat, the Film Festival, Inasal Festival, and Rum Festival.

“One City” showcases Bacolod’s iconic spots including the San Sebastian Cathedral, Plaza, and Yulo’s Park.

“One Heart” highlights the city’s rich culinary culture, with floats themed around cansi, cakes, seafood, and famous pasalubong treats like piaya and napoleones.

The street and arena dance competitions featuring participants from school and barangay categories will be held on Oct. 18 and 19, respectively.