TARLAC CITY, Tarlac (PIA) — As the holiday season sets in, communities in Tarlac once again come alive with the joy and excitement brought by Belenismo sa Tarlac, an annual celebration that highlights artistry, camaraderie, and the start of the Christmas season.
Now in its 18th year, Belenismo sa Tarlac, which was launched in 2007 through the Tarlac Heritage Foundation, has grown into one of the most anticipated Christmas festivities in the province.
It is officially recognized as part of the Department of Tourism’s calendar of events, continuously inspiring locals and visitors with its unique blend of creativity, culture, and faith.
From its humble beginnings as a small event commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, Belenismo has evolved into a grand provincial celebration.
Each year, the streets of Tarlac glow with vibrant lights and elaborate nativity scenes, welcomed by crowds of spectators eager to experience the sights.
This year’s opening once again transformed the province into a showcase of creativity, with participants from churches, business establishments, municipalities, and various organizations crafting their entries using local and recyclable materials.
A total of 52 Belen entries illuminate Tarlac this year, each depicting unique expressions of artistry and devotion.
The entries are divided into five categories: 20 entries participated in the community category, showcasing the creativity of various localities; 12 entries joined the monumental category with large-scale installations; 10 entries represented municipalities under the grand municipal category; seven entries competed under the church category with spiritually inspired designs; and three entries were submitted under the grand non-municipal category
Among the most anticipated displays is the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Belen, a Hall of Fame awardee under the Grand Non-Municipal Category.
For 2025, the AFP’s entry draws inspiration from a hobbit house paired with a bell tower, design that instantly captures the attention of visitors.
AFP Northern Luzon Command Master Sergeant Arci Bulacan, one of the creators of the AFP Belen, shared that the design carries deep symbolism.
The bell tower, he said, represents the integrity and sovereignty upheld by soldiers. He added that the entry was crafted with visitors in mind, aiming to offer both inspiration and visual delight.
The stories behind each Belen entry echo the rich culture and enduring Christmas spirit of the Tarlaqueños.
Tarlac Heritage Foundation Co-founder Isa Cojuangco-Suntay described Belenismo as a celebration of unity, faith, and local creativity.
“Dito namin isinasalarawan ang artistry ng bawat Tarlaqueño, ang diwa ng Pasko sa bawat Tarlaqueño, at ang kahalagahan ng simpleng kapanganakan ni Kristo sa sabsaban (This is where we showcase the artistry of each Tarlaqueño, the spirit of Christmas, and the significance of the humble birth of Jesus Christ),” she said.
As the lights of each Belen continue to shine across the province, they illuminate not only the streets but also the cultural heritage and timeless message of the nativity which are the true emblems of the Christmas season. (MJSC/AJRR, PIA Region 3–Tarlac)
