A Crown Earned Through Confidence and Purpose
BACOLOD - Beyond the dazzling costumes and applause, one young leader emerged as the face of Bacolod’s celebrated festival. Macy Alaine Albarico, a 24-year-old Sangguniang Kabataan councilor from Bago City, Negros Occidental, won the title of Miss Bacolod MassKara 2026 on October 11 during the 47th MassKara Festival. Representing Barangay Singcang Airport, she stood out among 15 candidates during the coronation at the STI-West Negros University Gymnasium. Her victory came with PHP150,000 in prize money, a sash, a bouquet, and the Miss Congeniality award. A Business Administration graduate majoring in Financial Management who works in the business process outsourcing industry, Albarico brings experience in youth leadership and community involvement to her new role.
Using the Spotlight to Inspire Community Action
For Albarico, the crown offers an opportunity to turn public attention toward issues that affect people's everyday lives. She intends to promote coastal conservation and responsible waste disposal, particularly by encouraging young people to take an active role in protecting the environment. During the pageant's question-and-answer segment, she also highlighted the importance of expanding access to employment opportunities, educational seminars, and practical information that can help residents improve their circumstances. Her message connected the confidence celebrated onstage with the responsibility to contribute beyond the spotlight. She also acknowledged the support of her family, glam team, and community, recognizing that her achievement was made possible by the people who stood beside her.
Finalists Showcase Talent, Heritage, and Women’s Empowerment
The competition also recognized several standout candidates, with Julie Mikayla Borja of Barangay Mansilingan finishing as first runner-up and Maria Zonora Ellyssa Curaza of Barangay Sum-ag taking second runner-up. Kyla Aligaga of Barangay Pahanocoy and Daniella Louisse B. Merelos of Barangay 32 completed the Top Five. Borja earned four special distinctions: Best in Festival Costume, Best in Gown, Best in Talent, and Darling of Social Media. The pageant's creative presentations drew inspiration from Bacolod landmarks and cultural symbols, including the City Public Plaza, bringing local identity into the celebration. More than a showcase of beauty and performance, the competition highlighted women's confidence, self-determination, cultural pride, and potential to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
