Interagency Team Prepares for Festival Safety
BACOLOD - The MassKara Festival 2026 Interagency Team is coordinating preparations involving the Bacolod City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (BCDRRMO), Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department (BTTMD), City Health Office (CHO), Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), Department of Social Development and Services (DSSD), as well as rescue and volunteer groups. Discussions have covered security and crowd control at festival sites, fire prevention, medical and emergency response, food safety, sanitation, and regular inspections of festival areas.
Traffic Plans Include Major Festival Events
Traffic management is another major part of the preparations, particularly as several large events are expected to attract crowds throughout the festival period. Proposed traffic adjustments include activities scheduled for October 10 for the Drum and Lyre competition, October 16 for the Electric MassKara Float Parade, and October 17–18 for the Arena and Street Dance Competitions. Potential road closures, alternative routes, and other traffic arrangements are still subject to the final recommendations of the BTTMD and approval of the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
Public Cooperation Remains Part of Festival Preparations
The preparations also include measures concerning public health, sanitation, food safety, and the implementation of the 10 p.m. curfew for minors. With multiple agencies and community groups involved, coordination will be important as festival activities take place across different areas of Bacolod. The public is encouraged to follow established rules, cooperate with authorities and event personnel, and immediately report emergencies to the appropriate response teams. These preparations are intended to support a safe and orderly MassKara Festival while allowing residents and visitors to participate in the city's major celebration.
