Courtesy: Nehemiah Manzanilla Sitiar
BICOL Loco, the first hot-air balloon and music festival in the region that captivated audiences and drew a staggering 165,000 attendees to the Old Legazpi Airport for two nights over the weekend, is a tourism triumph for the Philippines.
Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, who spearheaded the festival’s organization, on Wednesday said this unprecedented event aims to showcase the enchanting beauty of Bicol Region, home to the iconic Mayon Volcano.
“We’re committed to showing Bicol’s charm to the world. My vision is to put Bicol on the world tourism map. Kailangan malaman ng buong mundo kung gaano kaganda ang Bicol. Unang-una na dyan ang bulkang Mayon,” he said.
“We want to share Bicol’s natural splendor with the world. I know we can be a premier tourist destination. And this will create jobs, jobs, jobs. Bicol’s landscapes are Instagrammable, our culture is vibrant, and our hospitality is warm. I want Bicol to emerge as a must-visit locale on the global tourism stage,” he added.
His vision, coupled with the support of key figures like Capt. Joy Roa of Air Safari, ensured the festival’s resounding success.
“Set during the fiesta month of May, Bicol Loco aims to invigorate tourism. This is because we know tourism creates avenues for local development and global recognition. For years, tourists have overlooked Bicol’s potential. Now, with this festival, we are showcasing our region’s splendor and inviting the world to experience it,” he said.
With its breathtaking hot-air balloon displays, daring aerobatics, pulsating musical performances and incredible raffles, the three-day festival ignited Bicolanos and tourists alike. During the weekend extravaganza, participants were treated to a kaleidoscope of experiences, blending adventure, music, and the chance to win raffle prizes that included four units of house and lot each worth P1.5 million.
The festival’s opening day saw a throng of 80,000 enthusiastic fans at the Old Legazpi Airport, where they were treated to a stellar lineup featuring Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo, and a surprise appearance by Apl.De.Ap of the Black-Eyed Peas. The energy was palpable as attendees reveled in the electrifying atmosphere.
Day two of Bicol Loco was equally enthralling, with 85,000 attendees marveling at the sight of Mayon Volcano framed by a myriad of colorful hot-air balloons. Against this stunning backdrop, aerial acrobatics wowed the crowd, while performances by Jericho Rosales and Ely Buendia, both with Bicol roots, left lasting impressions.
The festival’s highlight was its raffle draw. Lucky winners walked away with coveted prizes, ranging from real estate to motorcycles and electronics to cash rewards.
