Smart Expands 5G Coverage in Bacolod Ahead of MassKara Festival 2026

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has expanded its 5G network coverage across Bacolod City ahead of the MassKara Festival 2026 to improve connectivity for tourists, residents, content creators, and festival participants during one of the city’s biggest annual celebrations.

PLDT’s wireless arm is the festival’s telecommunications partner, and the festival runs from October 1 to 18, with major events scheduled from October 16 to 18. This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Share the Smile. Celebrate Gugma,” highlighting Bacolod’s culture, community spirit, and reputation as the City of Smiles.

The network expansion comes as Bacolod prepares to welcome visitors attending street dance competitions, concerts, food events, and other festival activities across the city.

Smart 5G Supports Festivalgoers and Content Creators

Reliable mobile connectivity is essential during major festivals, especially for travelers who use their smartphones to navigate unfamiliar destinations, coordinate meetups, book transportation, and share travel experiences online.

Smart said its expanded 5G footprint is designed to support the expected increase in mobile data demand during MassKara Festival. Visitors can use compatible devices and available 5G coverage to livestream performances, upload photos and videos, make video calls, and access online services.

“Our 5G expansion in Bacolod strengthens our network capacity as the city comes alive for MassKara, helping residents and visitors stay connected as they experience the festival and share their moments with family and friends,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, First Vice President and OIC for Smart.

He added that Smart 5G aims to deliver faster and more reliable connectivity for subscribers attending street dance competitions and exploring activities throughout Bacolod.

As part of its festival support, Smart also turned over Smart Home WiFi 5G Max devices to the organizers to help address connectivity requirements during the celebration, including internet access for festivalgoers.

MassKara Festival 2026 Highlights and Venues

MassKara Festival brings Bacolod’s streets and public spaces to life through colorful costumes, energetic dance performances, music, and community events. The 2026 edition features an expanded program of cultural, sporting, food, and entertainment activities.

Major attractions include the street dance and arena competitions, Electric MassKara, and Miss Bacolod MassKara 2026.

The street dance competition will take place along Araneta Street, while the arena competition is scheduled between the bridgeways of SM City Bacolod. Concerts and entertainment events will also be held at several locations, including the Bacolod City Government Center, Bacolod Public Plaza, SM City Bacolod, Ayala Malls Capitol Central, and Megaworld.

Visitors can also look forward to MassKareppin, MasskaRap Battle, Choreographers Showdown, PetsKara, the Drum and Lyre Corps Competition, SingKara, Super KidsKara, and MassKara Hataw Sayaw sa Plaza.

With activities spread across multiple venues, visitors should check the official festival announcements for updated schedules, event locations, and possible changes before heading out.

Smart’s ‘Experience the Difference’ Zone

Festivalgoers can visit Smart’s “Experience the Difference” zone to explore activities that show how 5G connectivity supports everyday digital experiences.

The interactive area will feature opportunities to experience mobile services such as video streaming, video calls, and mobile gaming. Smart subscribers can also purchase products, access exclusive offers, and receive selected perks and freebies.

For travelers who rely on their phones to document their trips, these activities offer a closer look at mobile connectivity features that can support content creation and communication while exploring Bacolod.

Smart also highlighted its recent recognition from global network intelligence firm Ookla for Best Mobile Video Experience in the Philippines for the second consecutive year. The recognition was based on Speedtest Intelligence data from the first half of 2026, during which Smart recorded the country’s highest Video Score among mobile operators.

Strengthening Connectivity Beyond MassKara

Smart’s network expansion in Bacolod forms part of its continuing efforts to improve telecommunications infrastructure in key tourism and economic destinations across the Philippines.

According to Manaloto, the festival brings together communities to celebrate Bacolod’s culture, creativity, and spirit of joy. The city aims to strengthen its network so residents, businesses, and visitors can stay connected during the festival and beyond.

For travelers planning a MassKara Festival trip, dependable mobile connectivity can make it easier to coordinate itineraries, communicate with companions, find event venues, and share experiences throughout the celebration.

Visitors should remember that actual 5G performance depends on location, network conditions, device compatibility, and subscription details. Checking coverage and preparing a backup connectivity option can help make festival visits more convenient.

As Bacolod welcomes another edition of MassKara Festival, Smart is expanding its 5G footprint to support the city’s preparations for the influx of visitors expected to join the festivities from October 1 to 18, 2026.

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