The Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., the main organizer of the upcoming 2025 MassKara Festival, has announced restrictions on the number of participating barangays and schools in this year’s street and arena dance competition. Festival director Rodney Ascalon revealed that only 15 barangays will be allowed to join the barangay category, while the school category will return after five years, limited to seven elementary schools. This marks the category’s comeback since it was last held in 2019.

In the previous 2023 competition, seven barangays took part in the events. To coordinate participation, the foundation will conduct meetings with barangay representatives on August 5 and with school delegates on August 6. Interested parties must submit a letter of intent by August 10 to be considered for inclusion.

The Bacolod City Government earlier confirmed that the 46th MassKara Festival will run from October 1 to October 19, 2025, with the main highlights scheduled for October 17 to 19. These dates were adjusted in response to concerns from local vendors and small business owners regarding unpredictable weather that previously affected events held later in October.

Mayor Greg Gasataya also announced an after-party on October 26 to express gratitude to residents and participants of the festival.

This year, the MassKara Festival will place a stronger emphasis on inclusivity and representation. According to Ascalon, activities will highlight the contributions of various groups such as the LGBTQ+ community, senior citizens, youth, and the city’s dynamic artist community, whose cultural creativity continues to enrich the festival.

"MassKara has always been about unity in joy. This year, we are making a stronger effort to ensure that every sector is seen and celebrated," Ascalon remarked.

The foundation plans to unveil the official MassKara 2025 logo and music video in September 2025 as part of the lead-up to the festival.