Residents of various barangays in Pasay and Manila showcased their ingenuity and craftsmanship through uniquely designed belen (nativity scene) installations made from organic and recycled materials.

The initiative was organized by the Center for Social Action of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde to foster collaboration, creativity, and a shared spirit of celebration during the holidays.

In partnership with faculty and students from the Industrial Design Program, the friendly competition encouraged participating communities to explore both traditional and contemporary interpretations of the nativity story. The activity served as a platform for expressing faith, culture, and hope through sustainable and meaningful design.

Themed “Guided by the Star of Hope,” this year’s edition reflected the Lasallian mission of faith, service and communion. Participants were invited to draw inspiration from the Star of Bethlehem, the symbol of divine guidance that led the Magi to the humble birth of Christ. The theme also underscored the importance of journeying together as a community in seeking direction and strength amid life’s uncertainties.

The Belen Festival began with a master class that introduced residents to the fundamentals of design. Under the mentorship of Industrial Design Program officer-in-charge/chairperson Johann Mangussad, participants learned how to translate concepts into tangible prototypes and create Christmas star decors at scale using sustainable materials.

Following the ideation phase, selected Industrial Design students, under the guidance of faculty member Majella Antonia Tresvalles, shared their skills by assisting the barangays during the actual production process.

Each installation was composed of 50 percent upcycled materials and 50 percent organic materials, including twigs and branches, leaves, bamboo, fibers, wood, sinamay fabric, corn husks, and coconut shells, among others.

Standing at approximately five feet tall, the finished belens were paraded along the streets of Malate aboard carosa (carriages), pedicabs, bicycles, tricycles, and mini pick-up trucks. The procession was accompanied by The Musicians of Sta. Cecilia Del Pilar Band, as well as the Benilde Green Machine Drum Corps and Blazers Pep Squad.

Barangay 747 in Manila emerged as the gold awardee for their Filipino-inspired belen titled “Hardin ng Bagong Pag-asa.” Using wood, bamboo, banig (traditional woven mats), recycled palaspas (palm fronds), dried leaves, and old newspapers, the installation depicted the birth of Jesus Christ while conveying hope and new beginnings for Filipinos amid challenging times.

Barangay 756 in Manila earned the silver award for “Sinagtala,” which highlighted the rays of the star as a symbol of Christ’s birth and the guiding light of the Magi. Barangay 750 in Manila received the bronze award for “Bituin,” an installation made of everyday objects that invited viewers to reflect on their collective journey as a community, emphasizing contentment and honesty amid the temptation of corruption.