The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reaffirmed its commitment to the burgeoning global aerosports industry during the grand opening of the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) on February 13, 2026.
Under the theme “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” the event serves as a premier showcase for aviation sports, attracting elite pilots and enthusiasts from across the globe to the New Clark City Stadium.
CAAP Director General Retired Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario joined PIHABF Event Director Capt. Joy Roa for the ceremonial “first balloon burn,” signaling the official start of the festivities. “May the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta continue to inspire and elevate Philippine aviation for generations to come,” stated Lt. Gen. Del Rosario during the ceremony.
Beyond the spectacle in the skies, the festival served as a strategic hub for international diplomacy. Director General Del Rosario held high-level meetings with officials from the Airsports Federation of Asia (AFA) and representatives from Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, the United States, and Hong Kong. Key discussions focused on:
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Global Aerosports Growth: Capitalizing on the rising interest in competitive and recreational flight.
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Regulatory Harmonization: Aligning safety standards across borders to facilitate easier international participation.
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Tourism & Youth Engagement: Leveraging aerial events to drive economic development and inspire the next generation of aviators.
As aerosports continue to gain momentum, CAAP emphasized the importance of evolving regulatory frameworks. The Authority is dedicated to ensuring that the surge in interest is met with world-class safety and security protocols, fostering a sustainable environment for Philippine aviation to thrive on the global stage.
