NEW CLARK CITY (PIA) — The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) aims to introduce to the Filipino youth the world of aviation sports.
This year’s PIHABF will take place on February 13–15, 2026 at New Clark City (NCC) in Tarlac and will be participated by international pilots from Macedonia, Brazil, Switzerland, Belgium, the United States, and other countries.
Lead Organizer Joy Roa emphasized that one of the event’s main missions is to encourage people to explore careers in aviation and participate in sports aviation.
“The thrust of the new balloon fiesta is to encourage people to start a career in aviation and go into sports aviation,” he said.
Roa also noted that, with the support of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), stronger aviation-based sports programs will develop in the country.
“We hope to form more teams with the drone flying, paragliding and paramotor,” he added.
Meanwhile, Bases Conversion and Development Authority Vice President for Investment Promotion and Marketing Kenneth Peralta disclosed that NCC is being developed as the sports capital of the Philippines, boasting internationally accredited facilities such as the Athletics Stadium and Aquatics Center.
Peralta also highlighted plans for a 20-hectare multi-sport complex in partnership with the PSC.
PIHABF signals more than a weekend spectacle as it affirms NCC’s role as a venue for world-class gatherings, accessible tourism, and large-scale experiences built on modern infrastructure and open spaces designed for events of this magnitude. Ara Jamica R. Reparejo)
PHOTO CAPTION:
BASES Conversion and Development Authority Vice President for Investment Promotion and Marketing Kenneth Peralta invites the public to be part of another historic weekend of everything that flies during the pre-event press conference of the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF). This year’s PIHABF takes place on February 13–15, 2026 at New Clark City in Tarlac. (BCDA)
