Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co (Facebook)

A triumph for Philippine tourism. 

That's how House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co described the first ever Bicol Loco Hot Air Balloon Festival recently held in Legazpi, Albay. 

The event--practically entirely bankrolled by Co--drew an impressive 165,000 attendees to the Old Legazpi Airport from May 3 to 5. 

Co says that his goal is "to make this attraction available every day, all year round, and not just three days in a year. This is to create more jobs for locals because that is what we need most here in Bicol." 

The festival also aims to showcase the enchanting beauty of the 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,” said the Bicol lawmaker. 

(The entire world must know just how beautiful Bicol is. And foremost there is Mayon Volcano.) 

READ THIS: 

https://mb.com.ph/2024/5/3/zero-return-of-investment-bicol-solon-happy-to-drain-own-pocket-for-hot-air-balloon-event

 

The Bicol Loco Hot Air Balloon Festival (Rep. Co's office)

“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. 

The appropriations panel chairman's vision, coupled with the support of key figures like Capt. Joy Roa of Air Safari, ensured the festival's resounding success. 

“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. 

During the weekend extravaganza, participants were treated to a kaleidoscope of entertaining experiences, blending adventure, music, and a lavish raffle prizes that included four units of house and lot worth P1.5 million each.