The skies over New Clark City are set to come alive with color and innovation as the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) prepares for takeoff from February 13 to 15, 2026. Announced during a recent media forum, the event promises to be more than just a visual spectacle, evolving into a crucial platform for the nation's aviation talents.
Beyond Entertainment: Building Champions for the World Stage
Event Director Captain Joy Roa emphasized that the fiesta's mission extends far beyond entertainment. "These competitions are not just for fun—they are pathways for Filipinos to reach the international stage," Roa stated. The organizers are actively forming national teams to represent the Philippines in global contests, marking a strategic shift towards competitive aviation sports.
This year's competitive lineup is designed to hone local skills and includes:
- Paragliding Accuracy Competition: A preparatory event for an upcoming international meet in Thailand.
- Paramotor Beach Ball Competition
- FPV Drone Racing
- Drone Soccer Competition: Aimed at developing a team for overseas competition.
Aerial Spectacles and Historic Innovations
Attendees can look forward to breathtaking displays that blend tradition with cutting-edge technology. The fiesta will feature 22 special-shaped hot air balloons and a massive synchronized 550-drone aerial show for dazzling night performances.
A historic highlight will be the Kyxz Hoverbike Demonstration, marking the very first public showcase of a Philippine-invented hoverbike. This debut is celebrated as a significant milestone for local aviation innovation, putting homegrown engineering talent in the spotlight.
Family Fun and Future Flyers
True to its fiesta spirit, the event offers a wide array of family-friendly activities. The grounds will buzz with RC airplane games, paper airplane contests, kite flying, and displays from the Angeles Flying Club. Visitors can also witness helicopter demos, enjoy car drifting, explore a fly market, and let kids participate in dedicated play zones.
A core advocacy of PIHABF is youth development and education. The event will host aviation career seminars where industry professionals will share their journeys, aiming to inspire young Filipinos to pursue opportunities in aviation. "We try to educate people and start them on an aviation career. This helps the entire industry and creates a positive environment for the youth," explained Captain Roa.
Romance will also be in the air during the Valentine Dinner with Night Glow, where illuminated balloons and drones will create a synchronized light show against the night sky.
Logistics and Support for a Smooth Experience
To ensure accessibility, tickets are priced at an affordable ₱750. Joshua Bingcang, President and CEO of the BCDA, announced that free shuttle services will be provided for guests, coordinated with local government units in strategic areas including Capas, Bamban, and Clark. Promotional billboards along NLEX will also guide visitors to the venue.
The provincial government of Tarlac, represented by Governor Christian Yap, has pledged its full support for the event, underscoring its importance to the region. The fiesta has found a stable home at New Clark City, having been held there from the 24th edition to the present, after previous stints in locations like Carmona, Cavite, and with the Philippine Air Force.
Founded by former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta continues to soar, blending its rich history with a forward-looking vision for Philippine aviation.
