DOT readies for Hot Air Balloon festival in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga — The Department of Tourism (DOT) is now set to take charge in organizing the Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta annually held in Clark, Pampanga.
DOT said it will work in tandem with Clark Development Corporation, Clark International Airport Corporation and PAF Air Division (600th Air Base Wing) in organizing the unique ballooning event.
The hot –air balloon fiesta, the DOT said, is scheduled to be held on April 10 until 13 at the Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.
Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. said in a statement that since the event has “become so huge and wide” it was just about time it be supported by both the government and the private sector.
Based on previous years’ record, the only air-sporting event in the country draws to Clark more than 100,000 spectators from Pampanga and nearby towns including Metro Manila.
Each spectator, the DOT noted, is estimated to spend a daily average of P2,500 for accommodation, transportation, food and souvenir items or an equivalent of P500 million in lost revenues.
It will be recalled that the ballooning event, which is said to be the first of its kind among South East Asian nations (ASEAN), was first initiated by the DOT in 1994.
The DOT noted that support from LGUs will also be requested to contribute to cultural performers and street dancing contingents for what may be called the Festival of Stars.
It said that staged performances from a pool of local and national bands will also be featured as sponsored by San Miguel Corp.

Lastly, daily fireworks display will highlight the night cap including cook-off competition courtesy of hotels and restaurants in the province of Pampanga and Clark, the DOT stated.
Part of the proceeds from the event will be donated to various charities like the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Leyte and Samar, it added.
The event will be offered free entry to the general audience, excluding parking fee, which will be pegged at P50 for cars and P100 for buses