This is Charter Day, the official celebration of the day Bacolod was formally recognised as a city. It is not as loud as MassKara, and it will not clog the streets with dancers in glitter and feathers, but yes, it is a real thing — and people take it seriously, in their chill way.
Here is what happened: On June 18, 1938, Commonwealth Act No. 326 was signed into law, transforming Bacolod into a chartered city. That meant more independence, a proper city government, and a seat at the table when it came to national decisions. In short, the town levelled up.
These days, Charter Day is primarily a local holiday. City offices close, schools usually take the day off, and there is a decent chance you will bump into a civic parade or a government-led program somewhere near the plaza. Expect formal speeches, possibly accompanied by a choir or dance number from a local school, and numerous references to the city’s progress since 1938.
There might be a wreath laying. There might be a flag ceremony. There will definitely be people in matching polos printed with the city seal. If you’re lucky, there might even be free snacks available at the back of the venue if you arrive early enough.
[Photo by Joshua]
