Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, who witnessed the highlights of the 40th MassKara Festival, lauded the Bacolodnons for showing unity amid the heavy rains that greeted dancers and revelers on the festivity’s final day.
“Nakita ko na kayo palang taga Bacolod wala kayong alintana sa init, sa ulan. Pati mga anak niyo kasama niyo sa pagdalo. I have never seen a place, where a family, including children and babies go together. And that means, you are a very happy, united and cooperative people,” Panelo said in his message to the drenched crowd at the public plaza.
Panelo was welcomed by Mayor Evelio Leonardia and also joined by Movie and Television Review and Classification Board member Kate Brios. They watched the barangay street dance competition for several hours — from mid-afternoon to early evening — with umbrellas over their heads.
The Palace official said that President Rodrigo Duterte sends his greetings to the people of Bacolod, who celebrated the Ruby MassKara from October 7 to 27.
He added that the Chief Executive also sends his love, and prayers for the people of Bacolod and Negros Occidental to be blessed by God and have a comfortable life, that is free from criminality, illegal drugs, and suffering.
Panelo first visited the city on Friday and returned on Sunday to witness the barangay street and arena dance competition in the afternoon, and also graced the festival’s closing rites just before midnight at the Bacolod Government Center.
During his visit Friday, when he celebrated his birthday, Panelo rode a tricycle with the mayor, pictures of which he posted on social media.
Panelo also said that when he talked to the President hours before he arrived at the plaza, he told him that the people of Bacolod are really unique.
“Binibida ko sa kanya, sabi ko iba ang taga Bacolod,” he added.
For his part, the mayor said this year’s festival, indeed, became a MassKara like no other in many ways.
“This is the rainiest MassKara ever. At the same time, it made it more spectacular. This shows that our people have remained consistent in their support. MassKara is about our resiliency as a people. Once again, we have proven this under this circumstance. As the song goes ‘We made it through the rain,’” Leonardia said.
The mayor also said that through the world-class MassKara dancers, he has seen the people of Bacolod showcase their determination, dedication, hard work and talent.
“That shows we have a unity of purpose. We are a special kind of people. I’m very happy. I’m proud and honored that they made me their mayor,” he added. (Nanette Guadalquiver ndb via pna)