President Ferdinand R. Marcos is expected to attend the culminating activities for this year’s Masskara Festival in Bacolod City on Sunday, October 23.

The President’s attendance at the world-renowned festivity is a testament to his commitment to promoting local tourism in a bid to revive the country’s tourism industry amid the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Marcos, in a message on Friday, called on Filipinos to participate in the annual revelry and at the same time explore Bacolod, which is widely known as the “City of Smiles.”

"This world-renowned festival was conceived to counter the despondency brought about by the challenges of the time. Today, as we find ourselves facing a similar dilemma, let this year’s festivity resonate ever so deeply and find even greater meaning in its joyful observance," the President said.

With its theme, “Balik Yuhum!” which means smile again, the Masskara Festival is back for its 43rd-year celebration after two years of being suspended due to the pandemic.

MassKara Festival began in 1980 following a series of sugar crises suffered by Bacolodnons  and Negrenses. Specifically, the crisis was caused by the oversupply of sugar in the international market that caused world sugar prices to drop.

The smiling colorful masks used in the festival are a symbol of their resiliency and unity despite challenges and problems.

Before the festival, Marcos is scheduled to attend the inauguration of The Upper East and the unveiling of the township marker in Bacolod City. (OPS/PND)