CAPAS, TARLAC — The early morning skies of Tarlac were transformed into a colorful canvas on Friday, February 13, 2026, as the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) officially kicked off at New Clark City.
At least 27 massive hot air balloons, including 22 special-shaped inflatables, took flight during the opening day of the three-day event, which runs from February 13 to February 15.
A Weekend of Aviation and Adventure Under the direction of Capt. Joy Roa, the fiesta—dubbed “a weekend of everything that flies”—features a diverse lineup of aerial and ground activities:
- International Participation: Balloonists from the United States, Belgium, Switzerland, Brazil, and Macedonia are showcasing their skills. Notable entries include “Babbe,” a witch-shaped balloon from Belgium, and “Boo,” a ghost-shaped balloon from Indiana, USA.
- Competitions: Pilots are competing in the “hare and hound” event, a marker-dropping contest that tests their ability to maneuver through varying wind altitudes to hit a predetermined target.
- Diverse Aerial Displays: The event also includes drone racing, paramotor formation flying, paragliding, and hoverbike demonstrations.
- Ground Attractions: Car drifting shows, radio-controlled racing, and combat events are providing entertainment for spectators on the ground.
Historical Significance The PIHABF has deep roots in Central Luzon, originating in 1994 as a “passion project” to uplift the spirits of Pampanga residents following the devastating 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption. What began as a local effort at the Clark Freeport Zone has grown into the country’s premier annual aviation gathering, attracting thousands of tourists and professional pilots from around the world.
Travel Advisory Due to the high volume of spectators, heavy traffic is expected in and around New Clark City through Sunday evening. Local authorities have implemented traffic management plans to accommodate the influx of visitors from Central Luzon and Metro Manila.
As the cool February air provides ideal lift for the propane-heated balloons, the “love month” tradition continues to offer a unique blend of aviation education and family-friendly spectacle in its new home in Tarlac.