Phl’s first helium balloon flies in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines -  Another activity envisioned to become a tourist attraction has been launched to the media in Lapu-Lapu City.

The Cebu Helium Balloon, which is located in Hadsan Beach Complex, is owned by Jack Song, chief executive officer of Aura, Inc. Song's company has been operating it since early this year.

With a balloon diameter of 22.80 meters and a height of 34 meters, the recreational ride has a capacity of 30 passengers. The ascension height goes up to 150 meters and the ride lasts for about 15 minutes.

A 360-degree panoramic view of the neighboring islands, resorts and popular spots of the Historic Resort City of Lapu-Lapu allows the passengers to move around while being soared up to the sky, according to company officials.

The Cebu Helium Balloon situated in a wide-spaced area and has durable control cables enough for the operators to maneuver the recreational ride.

A tension cable is also connected from the ground to control the balloon's up and down movement with an electrical switch.

The company has a total of seven "pilots," enough for them to guide and assist the public in riding the helium balloon. Aura pilots were trained in Korea.

According to Helena Hwang, chief  secretary of Aura, Inc., this is the first recreational ride of its kind in the Philippines.

However, there are spots in the Philippines where the company will soon set up such attraction, such as the province of Bohol and Boracay Island.

Asked why they chose Lapu-Lapu City, Hwang said it is the company's closest choice because of its beautiful scenery of coastal beaches surrounding the island.

The ride costs 1,000 for adults and P700 for children aged 2 to 12 years are charged 700. Foreign adults are charged $50 and children, $30.

Mayor Paz Radaza said precautionary measures are observed by the company and that they got credible permit more than a month after they were monitored.

She said the tourist police will be around and will coordinate with the operational staff for their security of the area.

Radaza also said the company has secured an airport clearance permit even if the area is not part of the air-traffic zone.

Acting police director Senior Superintendent Armando Radoc of Lapu-Lapu City Police Office said to keep the area more secured, lightings are mounted within the perimeter of the beach complex.

Helium balloons are known to have flown through the skies in different countries such as Germany, United States of America, Korea, Singapore, France, Spain, Italy and Canada. (FREEMAN)