Everyone’s fun-filled day at BGC Passion Parade

Seven- to 12-foot-high balloon clusters formed into sculptures highlighted the Bonifacio Global City’s Passion Parade, held on two weekends last May 28 and June 4.

MANILA, Philippines—Seven- to 12-foot-high balloon clusters formed into sculptures highlighted the Bonifacio Global City’s Passion Parade, held on two weekends last May 28 and June 4.

“This is the first in the country in terms of customized balloon sculptures; these are the biggest specialized balloon sculptures done to date,” claimed Manny Blas, commercial operations head of Fort Bonifacio Development Corp. (FBDC).

“The balloons depict family fun and wholesomeness. They also represent the wide-eyed child in all of us. And since BGC delights in individuals who pursue their own unique passions with child-like curiosity and knack for adventure, balloons are the most inventive way for us to reach them,” Blas said.

Giant and colorful balloons, stylish cars and bikes, energetic runners and skate boarders, cute dogs and a 55-piece drum and lyre band parading in one event, plus freebies, this is what Bonifacio Global City’s (BGC) definition of a fun way to enjoy the day.

BGC together with its co-sponsors, the One Serendra and Two Serendra, celebrated its annual ‘Passionfest’ this year, trundling out seven to 12 feet high balloon clusters formed into sculptures.

Meanwhile, children line up for free handmade balloon twisters handed out at BGC before and after the parade. “It’s cute because we get to choose the kind of balloon we like, suddenly I feel young again,” said Shara Jane Tecson, 19, who giggled while clutching a heart shaped balloon, with another monkey-shaped balloon hugging it.

“My kids did not get the free balloons and ice cream because there were so many who lined up for the freebies,” said Cristy Palma, who took photos of her children with the giant balloons, instead.

BGC invited different organizations, artists and enthusiasts who regularly meet in BGC. Blas called it “The Home for Passionate Minds”.

“People who hang out in BGC are generally passionate themselves, and are appreciative of other people’s passions,” said Dr. Joey Luat of Pinoy Mini, a mini coopers club.

“We call them our Passion Communities. They represent the groups that frequent BGC to meet up, showcase and share their passions.” Blas said.

Blas said that BGC provided a venue where people can pursue passions without restrictions. “BGC is top-of-mind when it comes to preferred venue for running. So we have runners here. Pet dog lovers, who are weekenders in Bonifacio High Street, the bikers, car enthusiasts – Mini Cooper and Miata, skateboarders, and people who are into arts. Today, we have sketch artists giving out free artworks with our public art as background.”

BGC is the only running venue that is accessible and ‘runner friendly’ in the Metro, said Lorna Lee dela Paz, of Barely Legal Runners.

“Biking is a very good form of exercise that could relieve one’s stress and could promote camaraderie among other passionate bikers. BGC is a good place to bike because it’s safe. Traffic is orderly. There’s roving security. And the roads are wide,” said Tina Zamora, Loop Biker founder who led the group of bikers who joined the parade.

Car enthusiasts of the Miata Club Philippines and Pinoy Mini coopers club said they find BGC accessible and safe for their meetings.

The Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc (BAFI) invited five sketch artists from Formafuego group. The artists gave away free sketches on the first day.

Photography bugs can be seen taking photos of the event, and exhibits all over BGC.

“This is the first year we’re holding this. If people like it, we certainly can consider doing it again next year,” Blas said.