IN a groundbreaking move aimed at promoting local tourism and boosting employment, Rep. Elizaldy Co announced plans to make the hot-air balloon a permanent attraction in the Bicol region.
“What we plan after this Bicol Loco Hot-Air Ballon Festival is to make this attraction available every day, all year round, and not just 3 days in a year. This is to create more jobs for locals because that is what we need most here in Bicol,” Co said.
Co underscored that this initiative is not just a temporary celebration but a strategic move to pump up the local economy.
“Let us work together to put food on the table for all Bicolanos,” Co said.
Meanwhile, Co addressed concerns about government funds being used for festivity that starts today until Sunday.
“No government funds dahil nagfail ang bidding. Kaya sinagot ko na lang lahat ng gastos just to ensure the festival’s success (No government funds were used because the bidding failed. So I took care of all the expenses just to ensure the festival’s success). It’s an investment for the happiness of Bicolanos and economic prosperity of our region. This is a marketing strategy to promote Bicol,” he said.
Around 25,000 tourists from within and outside Bicol are expected to join celebration, which features top Filipino artists like Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo, Ely Buendia and Jericho Rosales.
“With flights and hotels as far as Naga and Camarines Norte fully booked, the value of this festival to tourism is undeniable,” Co said.
Asked why the Bicol Loco Festival is coinciding with the opening of the Magayon Festival, Co explained that the scheduling was based on climatic advice from PAGASA.
The first weekend of May was selected as the optimal time for the hot-air balloon activities, due to minimal wind conditions, which enhance safety and enjoyment for visitors.
Co added that he is not expecting a return on investment.
“The true return is in the form of community development and job creation,” he said.
