A festival of shapes and colors

MANILA, Philippines - Thousands flocked at the AFP grounds in Clark Freeport in Pampanga  to catch the closing ceremonies of the 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) last Sunday (Feb. 14).

Aside from showcasing colorful hot air balloons from all over the world, this annual event also features various aerosports and other aviation-related activities. This year's event provided an alternative venue for couples, families and friends who were also celebrating Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year.

While hot air balloons were used as tools of warfare, transportation, surveying, and communication during the war, nowadays balloons are used for scientific research or sports exhibition.

A typical hot air balloon weighs 60,000 to 140,000 cubic feet and rises from 60' to 90' in height. Made from coated ripstop nylon, it needs winds less than 10 mph, clouds at least 2000' above the ground and liquid propane to fly.