MassKara Festival Celebrates Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Strategic Insights -

The annual MassKara festival in Bacolod City, Philippines, continued to celebrate the city's spirit despite heavy rains that failed to dampen the enthusiasm of young dancers. For the first time in six years, the arena and street dance competition school category was held, with learners from seven public elementary schools showcasing their skills and grit. Estefania Elementary School emerged as the champion, taking home a total of PHP920,000 in cash prizes.

Key Takeaways:

  • Estefania Elementary School won the championship title in the arena and street dance competition school category, taking home a total of PHP920,000 in cash prizes, including PHP750,000 in the champion's cash prize, PHP150,000 in participation incentive, and PHP20,000 from DITO Telecommunity.
  • The school's victory marked its second title in the competition, with its first win coming in 2019.
  • The school credited its success to the collaboration among teachers, parents, and learners, who worked together as "one big family" to guide the children.
  • Paglaum Village ES was adjudged first runner-up and Asuncion L. Lizares ES was second runner-up, securing cash prizes of PHP300,000 and PHP200,000, respectively.
  • Paglaum Village ES was also awarded Best in Community Dance, Most Disciplined Contingent, and Best in Introduction Video, while Asuncion L. Lizares ES received the Best in Mask and Costume award.

Statistics:

  • 7 public elementary schools participated in the arena and street dance competition school category.
  • The total cash prizes awarded to the winning schools was PHP920,000.
  • Estefania Elementary School received PHP750,000 as the champion's cash prize.
  • The schools also received additional cash prizes of PHP150,000 for participation inhibition and PHP20,000 from DITO Telecommunity.

Sources:

  • (Philippines News agency) "Rains fail to dampen spirits of MassKara dancers" (October 19, 2025)