TARLAC CITY (PIA) — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) unveiled its entry for the Belenismo sa Tarlac 2023 under the Grand Non-Municipal Category.
This year’s AFP Belen, created by the Armor Division, features a facade made of bamboo to symbolize adaptability and resourcefulness.
The lower level has a winter wonderland theme with artificial snow, giant snowmen, Christmas village, farm animals, life size candy canes, Christmas tree, and other displays adorned with Christmas lights.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. led the lighting of AFP Belen, and expressed his full support to the annual Tarlac event which depicts the nativity scene or birth of Christ.
He likewise urged the soldiers to embody the positive characteristics of a bamboo in ensuring peace and security, defending the territory, guaranteeing food security, and protecting the environment.
“We will continue to rely on your commitment to protect and preserve the peace and security in our province,” he said.
Meanwhile, Tarlac Heritage Foundation Co-founder Dr. Isa Cojuangco Suntay looked back on the journey of Belenismo sa Tarlac from the day it became a calendar event of the Department of Tourism.
“Now in its 16th year, Belenismo sa Tarlac has come a long way since its inception in 2007. Belenismo sa Tarlac highlights the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. God’s gift to humanity is the perfect sacrifice for all the sins of the world,” she said.
With this, she enjoined the public to visit and enjoy the different belens in the entire province.
“The success of Belenismo sa Tarlac lies on the dedication of every Tarlaqueño to promote our talent in the art of creating beautiful belens,” Suntay added.
Totaling to 53 entries, there are 10 entries under the Community Category, 14 entries under the Church Category, 8 under the Monumental Category, 9 under the Grand Non-Municipal Category, and 12 under the Grand Municipal Category. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)
