Legazpi: This city is expecting to surpass last year's 200,000 tourist arrivals during the 35th Ibalong Festival from Aug. 7 to 23. Accommodation establishments have reported full bookings, Mayor Hisham Ismail said in an interview Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, a budget of PHP23 million has been allocated for this year's festival, which is anticipated to generate a multiplier effect on the local economy while promoting tourist destinations in Legazpi City and neighboring municipalities. The Ibalong Festival celebrates Bicol heroes Baltog, Handyong, and Bantong through cultural events, street performances, concerts, sports, trade fairs, and activities.

Also on Friday, the city unveiled a commemorative personalized stamp, in partnership with the Philippine Postal Corporation, at the city hall. The stamp, the first commemorative issue for the festival in about 45 years, aims to preserve its legacy and promote Legazpi City and its culture.

Meanwhile, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office head Miladee Azur stated that the city will implement a hybrid command, control, and coordination system to strengthen security and emergency response during the festival. "We will have our emergency operations on the ground together with tactical teams. We will coordinate with the police, the Public Safety Office, barangays, and other response agencies to ensure safety, health, and medical response during every event," Azur said.