Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Benigno N. Ricafort has expressed optimism that this year’s 15th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2010 slated on Feb. 11- 14 will highlight Clark’s role as a major tourist attraction and investment destinations in Asia.

Ricafort said the promotion and media mileage to be generated by the hot air balloon fest is expected to create more interests among prospective investors on the potentials of Clark as an investment destination.

He said that the annual event helps bring to Clark more foreign and local tourists during the month of February.

“We cannot deny the fact that the event bring to Clark thousands of aerosports 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 this time, including those outside the Clark Freeport, 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,” he said.

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 Aeromodelers Association, helicopter fly-by and choreographed kite flying demonstrations by the Kite Association of the Philippines.

Other on-site activities at Air Force complex at Clark 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,” he added. (PNA)

Checkout -> Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2010 Photos

Get Philippine Travel News on your inbox - Join Lakbay Pilipinas Mailing List