Gasataya seeks accountability in Bacolod MassKara game-fixing probe

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Mayor Greg Gasataya is seeking accountability and full transparency over the alleged game-fixing incident involving Bacolod MassKara and the Bulacan Kuyas in a Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League game on July 28.

Gasataya said those responsible for the alleged scheme must be held accountable to protect the integrity of the MPBL, the city’s local sports program, and Bacolod’s cultural identity.

“They should be transparent as they are bringing the name of Bacolod and MassKara,” he added.

The mayor welcomed the league’s immediate action to permanently ban players and members of the Bacolod MassKara coaching staff following an almost eight-minute scoring drought in the fourth quarter of the game, which ended in a 100-64 loss to the Bulacan Kuyas.

In a letter to MPBL Commissioner Joseph Ramos dated Aug. 14, Gasataya also sought clarification on the ownership of the “Bacolod MassKara” franchise and who authorized the use of “MassKara” in the team’s name.

He cited Bacolod City Ordinance No. 1020, or the “MassKara Cultural Property Rights Ordinance,” which recognizes the MassKara Festival and MassKara Dance as important cultural properties of the city and establishes the local government’s policy of protecting its cultural property rights.

“Again, we reiterate that the ‘MassKara’ name is a protected cultural trademark and a proud symbol of Bacolod City’s resilience,” Gasataya said.

Gasataya said a comprehensive review is necessary, noting that this is not the first time a team carrying Bacolod’s name has been linked to an issue of this nature.

He also asked whether the team properly coordinated with the local government before using the city’s name and identity.

The mayor urged MPBL management to take prompt action and continue cooperating with the investigation.

“We need an outcome of the investigation,” the mayor emphasized, recalling how previous organizations had coordinated with the local government and even fielded local players from Bacolod.

“This prompted me to clarify kay gakahuy-an diri dala dala ang ngalan ka Bacolod kag MassKara,” he added.

Aside from writing the MPBL, Gasataya also sent a letter to the Games and Amusements Board, which is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the alleged game-fixing and other possible violations arising from the incident.

The controversy has raised concerns beyond the basketball court because the team carries the names of both Bacolod and MassKara, a festival closely associated with the city’s identity and tourism promotion.

Gasataya stressed that accountability is crucial not only to uphold the integrity of professional basketball but also to protect the reputation and cultural identity of Bacolod City.