15 Candidates, 15 Barangays, One Bacolod
BACOLOD - The 15 candidates will represent Barangays Alijis, 29, Taculing, Mandalagan, Sum-ag, Estefania, Granada, Tangub, Mansilingan, Bata, Singcang, 32, Cabug, Villamonte, and Pahanocoy. The candidates are Aleyssa Dionio, Hannah Damasco, Margarette Ymballa, Jasper Anne Lucero, Ma. Zonora Ellyssa Curaza, Eurica Cielo C. Abarro, Ashley Nicole R. Andrade, Jeaven Icy A. Musni, Julie Mikayla A. Borja, Lourdeth G. Codico, Macy Alaine E. Albarico, Daniella Louisse B. Merelos, Krizza May L. Fernando, Zoe Dorothy M. Ardiente, and Kyla C. Aligaga. Having candidates carry their barangay names gives the competition a community-centered element, allowing audiences to associate each contestant with the neighborhood she represents. It also gives supporters another reason to follow the pageant as their own communities take part in the celebration.
The Competition Moves to Ayala Malls Capitol Central
Before the crown is awarded, the candidates will have several opportunities to introduce themselves to the public. The Press Presentation and Talent Competition will take place on October 2 at Ayala Malls Capitol Central, where two candidates will receive the Darling of the Press title—one chosen by traditional media and another by online media. Corporate Day will follow on October 9 at the same venue, giving the candidates an opportunity to meet partners and respond to questions designed to highlight their confidence, personality, and knowledge. These activities will build toward the main event while giving the candidates several platforms to show qualities beyond their stage appearances.
A New Venue for the Coronation Night
The journey will culminate on October 11 at the STI Gymnasium, which will serve as the new home of the Miss Bacolod MassKara Grand Coronation Night. Rodney Ascalon said the candidates are being given an opportunity to carry not only a title but also the name and story of their respective barangays, while the new venue is intended to create a space where more people can participate in the celebration. The 2026 edition carries the theme “Share the Smile. Celebrate Gugma,” bringing together the pageant's competition with the spirit associated with MassKara. With barangay representation at the heart of the competition and a new venue for its final night, Miss Bacolod MassKara 2026 offers another way for communities across the city to share in one of Bacolod's most anticipated celebrations.
