PAMPANGA, Philippines – After a six-year hiatus, the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival is making a highly anticipated comeback from April 11 to 13, 2025, at Pradera Verde in Lubao, Pampanga—with participation from seven countries, including Australia, Vietnam, The Netherlands, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and the Philippines.
Recognized as Southeast Asia’s largest hot air balloon festival, the event drew over 20,000 visitors daily in 2019, peaking at 30,000 on the final day. Organizers expect similar, if not larger, crowds this year as the festival combines stunning balloon flights with top-tier musical performances.
To ensure public safety, the Pampanga Police Provincial Office is deploying 329 police officers and 208 personnel from other agencies. Officers will be stationed at entry points, balloon zones, stages, parking areas, and intersections. Emergency help desks will also be set up across the venue.
“We are focused on keeping the event safe for everyone. Our officers will be visible and ready to respond to any situation,” said Pampanga Police Provincial Director PCOL Jay C. Dimaandal.
A detailed traffic management plan is also in place, with one-way routes, designated parking zones, shuttle services, and traffic personnel assigned to critical junctions. Festivalgoers are encouraged to arrive early to avoid delays.
Emergency response teams—including medical crews, fire trucks, ambulances, and quick-response units—will be on constant standby. A central command center will oversee safety operations throughout the three-day celebration.
With 26 hot air balloons set to launch and a star-studded concert lineup, the Lubao festival is expected to once again soar high in both spectacle and attendance.