Manila, Sept. 14 -- Organizers of the MassKara Festival promised an inclusive celebration of one of the country's most colorful and vibrant festivals on its 46th year, set Oct. 1 to 19.

The grand launch at Roy's Hotel and Convention Hotel on Saturday, led by Mayor Greg Gasataya and festival director Rodney Mitz Ascalon of Bacolod Gugma Foundation, showcased all events of the 19-day celebration described as "the most community-driven and people-centered edition yet."

"The most unique for this year is we're giving back the festival to the people. We have various inter-barangay competitions, a barangay trade fair and the return of Miss Bacolod MassKara queens from the past. We're really concentrating on the roots and the heart of this cele...