LEGAZPI CITY, Albay (PIA) – The Bicol region will have its version of the hot air balloon festival in May.

The Department of Tourism in collaboration with Ako Bicol partylist will organize the event which will be called the Bicol Loco Festival.

“This will be the first time that the sky above the region will be filled with balloons,” said Herbie Aguas, DOT regional director for Bicol.

Aguas said this festival will “bring the region to the attention of the world as it will be publicized throughout the tourism industry.”

Dozens of hot air balloons will be piloted by certified hot air balloon pilots to ensure the enjoyment and safety of the passengers, especially first-timers, he added.

Aguas said each of the balloons will be painted or designed with Bicol’s tourist destinations.

Organizers have narrowed down the venue of the festival to be either in the Bicol University grounds or the Legazpi Airport runway.

“This festivity will surely benefit the local business sector, especially in the tourism amenities, and can help in the local economy,” Aguas said.

The project was initially proposed by Ako Bicol partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, who chairs the House Committee on Appropriations.