Negocc to showcase Masskara, Babaylan at ‘Fiestas in the City’

NEGROS Occidental is showcasing two of its best festivities during the “Fiesthe tas in the City,” an event organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in Western Visayas to boost the region’s travel destinations.

province will again take pride of the world renowned Masskara Festival of Bacolod City, and Babaylan Festival of Bago City during the sixday event at Northpoint Event Center of SM City Iloilo from May 25 to 31 this year.

Cristine Mansinares, provincial supervising tourism operations officer, said festivals are among the tourism events and offerings that have been attracting local and foreign tourists.

The province, through its participation in the event, could further posi

tion itself as a top travel destination in the country, she added.

The “Fiestas in the City” is in collaboration with SM City Iloilo and provincial governments in Region 6.

The event tagged as Western Visayas Regional Travel Destination Exhibit presents the different tourism offerings of various destinations in the region.

During the grand opening on Saturday, the regional line agency showcased various festivals in the region including the Masskara Festival and Kansilay Festival of Silay City.

There will be a daily showcase of cultural performances from each of the component provinces and highly-urbanized cities.

The Capiz and Antique Day was held on May 26 while Aklan is today, May 27; Guimaras - May 29; Iloilo Province - May 30; and Iloilo City, Negros Occidental and Bacolod City - May 31.

“Our Masskara and Babaylan dancers will stun audience from Western Visayas and other parts of the country,” Mansinares said, adding that these festivals reflect the rich culture, history and traditions as well as artistry and creativity of the Negrenses.*

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO DOT Western Visayas Regional Director Helen Catalbas (center) with Provincial Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Cristine Mansinares (second from right), Alphonsus Tesoro of Capiz Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (left), Lorna Longno of Smallville Travel and Tours (second from left), and Lilibeth Traspadillo of Negros Occidental Tourism Division at the sidelines of the ongoing “Fiestas in the City” at Northpoint Event Center of SM City Iloilo.