Oct. 8 to 28: Masskara Festival
One of the most popular festivals in the Philippines, the Masskara Festival in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental province, dates back to the early 1980s, when the prices of sugar, the city’s main agricultural product, dropped. The local government, civic groups and artists organized a festival to lift the spirits of residents going through tough times. Masskara came from the words “mass” and “cara,” which is face or facade in Spanish. Among the events lined up are a fashion show, Masskara makeup competition, street dance competition and mardi gras night.
Oct. 12: Parau Festival
The cultural heritage of the town of Pilar in Sorsogon province takes center stage in the festivities. Parau is a Visayan word for a 10- to 16-centimeter-long sail craft with outriggers used by fishermen. One of the festival’s highlights is the float competition, where the perseverance and ingenuity of Pilar residents are shown.
Oct. 12: Kasinagan Festival
A festival in Pilar, Bataan province, in honor of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the town’s patroness. The festival’s name was derived from the Filipino word “sinag,” which is seen from Nuestra Señora del Pilar’s crown. Among the festivities include a street dancing competition, talent show, agri fair and sports events.
Compiled by Kathleen de Villa, Inquirer Research