The real concept of a festival is still evident in your place. Showcasing what the city can offer and commerating its nativity, that's what a festival should be, in my opinion, aside from the music, souveiners, the people, and the streetdances.
Meanwhile, the Masskara Festival here in Bacolod is more commercialized by now. Every corner of the downtown is full of kiosks and stores. Most are commercialized, and I guess the only thing that is still native is the streetdance competition and the native souveiners at gift shops.
Overall, it is still fun going to such festivals. You get to know more what the place can offer while amusing yourself with the views, shows, and most of all the foods that is native to that place.
Very true, really the Maskara festival? Well, maybe because it's being influenced by politicians and rich people. They knew they will earn more money instead of spending or like wasting it. Nowadays, money is more important than history.