The Department of Tourism in Bicol (DOT-5) is optimistic that the upcoming Bicol Loco Hot Air Balloon Festival will attract domestic and international tourists.
In an interview on Tuesday, Herbie Aguas, the regional director of DOT-5, said the festival is anticipated to attract more than 500,000 tourists from various provinces, Metro Manila, and other regions.
“The Bicol Loco Festival, now in its second year, is a significant factor in attracting visitors. Many have already confirmed their attendance for the three-day event,” he said.
The festival is set from June 14 to 16 at the Old Legazpi Airport.
The festival will feature a variety of activities, including a Philippine flag skydiving jump, a hot air balloon flyout, paramotor fun flying with balloons, a car drifting show, an aerobatic display, and paramotor formation flying.
The presence of renowned performers such as Fred Engay with the Rise High Band, DWTA, Kim Won Shik, Kim Ji Soo, Earl Augustin, SB19, Zack Tabudlo, Hev Abi, and Rico Blanco is expected to attract large crowds.
Aguas said the festival benefits not only the city and province but the entire region as well.
“Last year, all resorts, hotels, and restaurants were fully booked, and even small stores gained significant profits. This is promising, as it creates growth opportunities,” he said.
Aguas said the event is expected to drum up excitement in the tourism industry and the local economy in the region.
“When a tourist arrives at the airport and takes a tricycle or buys food, income starts to flow. If a tourist spends at least PHP2,000, just imagine how much more revenue can be generated with a larger number of visitors,” he said.
Aguas said funding for the event came from the Ako Bicol Party-list (AKB) and has been allocated by the city government of Legazpi.
“The city government can manage the event in terms of manpower, but collaboration and coordination with our office are essential,” Aguas said.
He added neighboring towns and cities would also benefit from the event.
“In addition to the hotels here in Legazpi, accommodations are available as far as Tabaco, which is beneficial since it allows tourists to explore different towns. This is great for tourism,” he said.
Aguas also cited the various attractions for tourists visiting Albay, which showcase the nature’s beauty within and around the city.
“We have resorts like Punta Almara in Ligao City, Misibis Bay in Bacacay, and several waterfalls in the province. Moreover, there’s Sumlang Lake in Camalig, and the famous ATV rides with the majestic Mayon Volcano as a backdrop,” he said.
In a separate interview, Legazpi City Mayor Alfredo Garbiin said the city is all set for the three-day festival.
“Promotions are now in full bloom, we have billboards in Iloilo, Cebu, and even in EDSA. More surprises, concerns, colorful hot air balloons will participate, and even air shows. We hope that we will surpass the previous tourist arrivals,” he said. (PNA)
