The Tarlac Heritage Foundation (THF) honored the winners of the 17th Belenismo sa Tarlac, an annual competition celebrating the artistry, tradition, and devotion of Tarlaqueños through belen-making.
The competition showcases the unique interpretations of the nativity scene across various categories: Grand Municipal, Community, Monumental, Church, and Grand Non-Municipal.
A Symbol of Unity and Faith
THF Co-founder Dr. Isa Cojuangco Suntay emphasized the spiritual and cultural significance of belen-making, calling it a symbol of unity, creativity, and love.
“This year, we celebrate the 17th anniversary of Belenismo sa Tarlac with 62 entries. The art of making belen not only reflects exceptional craftsmanship but also stands as a religious emblem fostering peace and unity despite our differences,” said Suntay.
Celebrating Excellence in Belen-Making
Joining Suntay in awarding this year’s winners was Philippine National Police Chief PGen. Rommel Marbil.
𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑴𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒑𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒓𝒚
🌟 1st Place: Municipality of Moncada
🌟 2nd Place: City Government of Tarlac, Municipality of San Manuel, and Municipality of Capas (tie)
🌟 3rd Place: Municipalities of San Clemente and Ramos
𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑵𝒐𝒏-𝑴𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒑𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒓𝒚:
🌟 1st Place: Armed Forces of the Philippines Belen
🌟 2nd Place: SM Primeholdings Inc.
🌟3rd Place: Robinsons Land Corporation
𝑴𝒐𝒏𝒖𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒓𝒚:
🌟 1st Place: The Armor Division Belen and CYG 2 Belen
🌟 2nd Place: Tarlac Medical Center and TARELCO I
🌟 3rd Place: Kamnar Café
𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒓𝒚:
🌟 1st Place: San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish 2
🌟 2nd Place: Iglesia Independiente – Mission of Saint Francis of Assisi, St. John Nepomucene Parish, and Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Dapdap (tie)
🌟 3rd Place: St. Antoninus Pura Tarlac, Iglesia Filipina Independiente – Parokya ni San Juan Nepomuceno, and St. Michael the Archangel Parish Bamban
𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒓𝒚:
🌟 1st Place: Jollibee Highway, McDonald’s Luisita, Villa Luisa Resort, and Barangay Balingcanaway Community
🌟 2nd Place: Barangay Camangaan East, San Francisco West, San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish 3, McDonald’s Romulo, and Atrium de Tarlac
🌟 3rd Place: Kai’s Fitness Gym and Kr8tive Garage Printing Services Snowflakes
𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒄
Dr. Suntay encouraged the public to visit these stunning Christmas attractions displayed in buildings, churches, communities, and establishments across Tarlac.
Accredited by the Department of Tourism, the Belenismo sa Tarlac is also a proud member of the Federation Española de Belenistas, further solidifying its reputation as a world-class showcase of Filipino creativity and faith. (PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
