19th ‘Belenismo sa Tarlac’ kicks off

The town of Pura kicked off the annual 19th Belenismo sa Tarlac festival last Wednesday, unveiling a record-sized Nativity scene at the Pura Rizal Park as part of the province’s celebrated Christmas tradition.

According to the Pura Tourism, Sports, Culture and the Arts office, the display is the largest Belen structure ever constructed in the municipality.

“Designed and conceptualized by renowned Belen-making enthusiast Allan Nool and company, this year’s official entry marks a significant message of Tarlac residents’ resilience amidst natural disasters and challenges,” the local tourism office said.

The structure incorporates traditional indigenous materials — specifically bamboo wares — alongside customary Christmas decorations, centering on the classic manger scene.

In a poignant design touch, the creative team integrated a replica of the collapsed Agana Bridge into the base of the structure.

Designers said the replica symbolizes the recent trials faced by the province following a natural disaster, showcasing local fortitude and endurance in the face of catastrophe.

The 19th Belenismo sa Tarlac runs through 6 January 2027, featuring 53 entries from municipal governments, churches, educational institutions, military units, and commercial establishments.

Most participants construct their displays using upcycled and native materials, including discarded sacks, glass and plastic bottles, tin cans, and coconut husks, reinforcing Tarlac’s reputation as the “Belen Capital of the Philippines.”