{"id":33212,"date":"2026-01-12T16:40:06","date_gmt":"2026-01-12T08:40:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.techbeatph.com\/wproot\/?p=33212"},"modified":"2026-01-12T16:40:06","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T08:40:06","slug":"a-weekend-of-everything-that-flies-tech-tourism-and-aviation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.techbeatph.com\/wproot\/a-weekend-of-everything-that-flies-tech-tourism-and-aviation\/","title":{"rendered":"A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation"},"content":{"rendered":"

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A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams<\/h2>\n

Hot Air Balloons Meet Drone Tech<\/h3>\n

The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta<\/strong> is set for February 13\u201315, 2026<\/strong> at New Clark City, Tarlac. This year\u2019s edition promises to be the biggest yet, with 22 special-shaped balloons<\/strong> flown by pilots from the UK, US, Belgium, Netherlands, Macedonia, Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil. A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams.<\/p>\n

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(L-R): BCDA Vice President for Public Affairs Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet, BCDA Officer-in-Charge and Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Group Engr. Mark P. Torres, PSC Commissioner Edward Hayco, Provincial Government of Tarlac Investment Promotions Officer Frances Canlas, PIHABF Founder and Organizer Capt. Joy Roa, and BCDA Vice President for Investment Promotions and Marketing Kenneth R. Peralta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

But balloons are just the beginning. Each day closes with two crowd favorites: the glowing balloon night show and a 500-drone aerial performance<\/strong> painting the skyline with formations and messages. That\u2019s not just entertainment\u2014it\u2019s a showcase of how drone technology has evolved into large-scale synchronized art.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always said drones are the new fireworks. For readers, this means you\u2019ll witness precision engineering turned into spectacle. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, \u201cBalloon festivals are just balloons.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Paragliding and FPV Drone Racing<\/h3>\n

The Fiesta isn\u2019t just about floating gently in the sky. It\u2019s about speed, skill, and sanctioned competition. With Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI)<\/strong> paragliding events and First-Person View (FPV) drone racing<\/strong>, participants from at least six countries\u2014including the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, and the Philippines\u2014will compete. A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams<\/p>\n

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FPV drone racing is particularly fascinating. Pilots wear goggles that stream live video from their drones, creating an immersive cockpit experience. It\u2019s esports meets aviation.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always argued that drone racing is the Formula 1 of the skies. For readers, this means you\u2019ll see technology pushed to its limits in real time. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, \u201cDrone racing is just a hobby.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Soccer Drones and Paper Planes<\/h3>\n

Adding a playful twist is the Soccer Drone competition<\/strong>, a rising global sport where drones battle for goals in a demo court. The Fiesta hopes to host a world championship in the future.<\/p>\n

School teams from FEATI University<\/strong> and PATTS College of Aeronautics<\/strong> are forming squads to compete, with winners representing the Philippines internationally.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, the Paper Plane competition<\/strong> invites all ages to join. It\u2019s low-tech fun alongside high-tech marvels, proving that flight inspires across generations.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always said the best tech events balance spectacle with accessibility. For readers, this means you can participate whether you\u2019re piloting drones or folding paper. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, \u201cAviation is only for professionals.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Flying Demos and Future Tech<\/h3>\n

Expect RC airplane demos, aerial dogfights, kite shows<\/strong>, and ultralight formation flying. But the real showstopper? Filipino inventor Kyxz Mendiola<\/strong> demonstrating his homebuilt manned flying drone<\/strong>. Watching him fly inside his creation is a glimpse at the future of personal air travel. A Weekend of Everything That Flies: Tech, Tourism, and Aviation Dreams<\/p>\n

This isn\u2019t science fiction\u2014it\u2019s engineering ambition.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always argued that innovation should be visible, not hidden in labs. For readers, this means you\u2019ll see the future of mobility hovering right above you. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, \u201cFlying cars are just a fantasy.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Ground-Level Thrills<\/h3>\n

It\u2019s not all about the skies. On the ground, expect car drifting exhibitions<\/strong>, a buzzing Fly Market<\/strong>, and Pampanga\u2019s famous culinary offerings. Technology meets lifestyle here\u2014motorsport precision alongside aviation spectacle, with food fueling the fun.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always said festivals should engage all senses. For readers, this means you\u2019ll enjoy tech, speed, and flavor in one place. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, \u201cBalloon fiestas are just for photos.\u201d<\/p>\n

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PSC Support and Aero Sports Growth<\/h3>\n

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)<\/strong> is backing the Fiesta, supporting paragliding and paramotor athletes preparing for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand. These same paramotors will showcase their skills during the event.<\/p>\n

This isn\u2019t just entertainment\u2014it\u2019s athlete development, tourism promotion, and aero sports growth rolled into one.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always argued that sports tech deserves as much spotlight as mainstream athletics. For readers, this means you\u2019ll see Filipino athletes training with world-class gear. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, \u201cAero sports don\u2019t matter.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Inspiring Careers in Aviation<\/h3>\n

The Fiesta isn\u2019t only about thrills\u2014it\u2019s about futures. Aviation professionals will share their journeys, from air traffic controllers and mechanics to pilots and flight attendants<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Capt. Joy Roa emphasized inspiring the next generation of aviators. Aviation offers competitive salaries, global opportunities, and the chance to see the world while doing something you love.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always said career talks are more powerful when paired with spectacle. For readers, this means you\u2019ll leave with both memories and motivation. And yes, it also means you can finally stop saying, \u201cAviation careers are out of reach.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Legacy of Flight and Cultural Exchange<\/h3>\n

Over 25 years, the Fiesta has delivered unforgettable moments:<\/p>\n