CAPAS | For 5 years beginning in 2024, New Clark City will be the official venue of the returning and much anticipated Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) as divulged during the KapiHANN, a press conference event of the Pampanga Press Club at Swissotel Clark of Hann Resorts. The invited guests are key stakeholders for the PIHABF.
The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta will be held on February 16-18, 2024 at the 60-hectare New Clark City Complex. Ticket sales are at https://www.balloonfiesta.ph/home/tickets/.
A LOT OF “SOMETHING NEW”
Imagine the uniquely shaped Hot Air Balloons lifting off from the grounds surrounding New Clark City’s National Government Administration Center and the architectural wonders of the NCC Athletics Stadium and Aquatics Center – these are a few of the many iconic experiences you can marvel at the PIHABF. Unlike the runway grounds where it was held before, the hot air balloons are not collectively grouped but scattered around the festival grounds, thus, giving more guests a chance to have nearer experiences with the iconic hot air balloons. So during taking off, be ready to see hot air balloons from different directions. Keep those eyes peeled. Apart from the flying giants, spectators can enter and get to feel the state-of-the-art NCC Athletics Stadium.
Bringing new, fresher, and adventure-perspective, the aviation festival will feature new spectacles, activities, and captivating air shows, Captain Roa unveiled the new features and segments such as Aerobatics Team from England that would fly in the morning and late afternoon with pyrotechnics – a first in the country, more dynamic Wing Walkers, Illuminated Drone Show, Jet turbine powered Parasailers, more foreign professional skydivers and an International Drone Race event.
Since it is held at the New Clark City developed zone, expect lesser dusty conditions, and more comfort rooms. Also, there is a dedicated wide parking space for guests and visitors.
Additionally, to uphold the tagline “A weekend of everything that flies”, PIHABF will be holding learning sessions about careers in the Aviation Industry. There would be resource speakers from pilot schools, aeronautics, the air traffic controller industry, and many more. Take this opportunity to explore the wonderful and interesting industry of Aviation.
THE USUALS AND AIR FIESTA ESSENTIALS
A flag jump would always be present to kickstart the day’s activities. This is one of the goosebumps moments as you can see the Philippine Flag dramatically unveiling and flying above the skies of Capas. Hot Air Balloons are set to lift off as soon as the ground and air conditions are favorable during early morning or late afternoon.
Many spots of interest and activities will fill up your entire day at the New Clark City. There would be sky diving shows, Paramotor formation flying, kite flying activities, and much more! For your convenience, there are food kiosks and a fly market. There would be scheduled live band performances for your entertainment.
There would be the usual Night Glows where tethered Hot Air Balloons are set to be larger-than-life-sized bulbs illuminating the festival grounds at nightfall.
Link for the Official Schedule of Activities: https://www.facebook.com/share/tu2X7TztA7WdgTLT/?mibextid=QRhQuG
SAFETY AND CONVENIENCE IS PARAMOUNT
Sir Rene Romero representing the Balloon Chasing Side expressed his full support for Captain Roa’s events. Even transferring the PIHABF to Cavite, Sir Romero was there. Their strong partnership has led to the yearly safe return of the hot air balloon passengers, the gondola, and the hot air balloon itself back to the festival grounds.
The event organizers are also in talks with the armed forces for the safety of the entire festival. Moreover, they studied well the grounds and made plans for parking, the ingress, and the egress of the crowd. The provincial government of Tarlac is also finalizing the security plans for the event.
With all of these factors in place, the PIHABF will make New Clark City a pleasurable destination for families according to BCDA PCEO Bingcang.
TARLAC IS READY
According to Governor Susan Yap, Tarlac is prepared for the upcoming PIHABF. They have many hotels and accommodations that are near the festival grounds, albeit not the luxurious or high-end ones. She promoted Clark for the luxury hotels it has. During the KapiHANN, Governor Yap expressed full support to the PIHABF. She mentioned that her administration is ready for any logistical needs of the PIHABF. She also mentioned that the Tarlac Business Sectors are also preparing to help in hosting the event.
HANN RESORTS AS MAJOR SPONSOR
To honor the exciting partnership of Hann Resorts and PIHABF, they held a ceremonial signing of the MOA during the Press Conference.
PREPARE YOURSELF
The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is more than the colorful flying gentle giants. It is a whole day of experiences for you and your family that involves everything that flies. Since it is a huge festival, prepare for the crowd, possible long queues, and bearing the heat of the sun. Here are the recommended essentials you should bring in body/shoulder bags for easy reach and security:
- Sun Protection (Wide Brim Hats or Slather with sunscreens SPF50 up every two hours)
- Sunglasses
- Umbrella
- Drinking Flask
- Power Banks and Charging Cables
- Enough Cash
- Candies
- Wet Wipes / Tissue
- Face Masks (Yes, it is Flu season!)
Lastly, Please practice Clean As You Go (CLAYGO) and safely enjoy the PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON FIESTA!
