CLARK FREEPORT— Clark Development Corporation President Benigno Ricafort expressed optimism that the 15th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta slated on February 11 to 14 will highlight Clark's role as a major tourist attraction and investment destination in Asia.
Ricafort said the promotion and media mileage for the hot air balloon festival would generate interest among tycoons on the potentials of Clark as an investment destination.
He said that the yearly event helps in bringing to Clark foreign and local tourists.
“We cannot deny the fact that the event bring to Clark thousands of aero sports enthusiasts from the local and international communities," Ricafort said.
Tourism-related industries in Clark also get a boost as villas and hotel rooms are all fully booked during the month-long festival, he said.
“It’s a big promotion for Clark and this is one of the major sporting events that puts Clark in Asia's tourism limelight,” Ricafort added.
The 15th hot air balloon festival, which is under the auspices of Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Foundation, Inc. (PIHABFFI), is expected to break the attendance record of more than 60,000 local and foreign tourists that trooped here last year.
The event will also showcase various air-sporting events like sky diving, ultra-light fly-in, airplane rally and balloon bursting competitions, aerobatic stunts and precision flying, aero-modelers flight exhibition from the Aero modelers Association, helicopter fly-by and choreographed kite flying demonstrations by the Kite Association of the Philippines.
Other on-site activities at the Philippine Air Force complex include mini-trade fair, food plazas, car & airplanes shows and exhibits, game booths, and live concerts.
“This is an opportune time for you and your loved ones to enjoy, up-close and personal, four fun-filled days as colorful and odd-shaped hot air balloons take to the skies,” Ricafort said.