Tarlac's Belenismo 2024 showcases 62 giant nativity scenes made of recycled, indigenous materials

Sixty-two giant nativity scenes or belens were showcased at the official launch of the 17th Belenismo in Tarlac, the Belen Capital of the Philippines.

According to Mariz Umali's report on "24 Oras" Tuesday, the colorful and creative nativity scenes featuring Joseph, Mary, and Jesus were created from recycled and indigenous materials.

This year's Belenismo carries the theme, "Offering Basket in the Altar," which emphasizes the true spirit of Christmas: Jesus Christ's birth.

"Minsan nakakalimutan natin 'yung tunay na mensahe ng Pasko, which is the birth of Jesus Christ," said JM Modomo, one of the designers of the nativity scenes and a tourism and budget officer in San Clemente, Tarlac.

"'Yun 'yung hinahatid na mensahe ng belen sa 'ting lahat, offering basket in the altar. Si Jesus Christ kasi is the greatest offering of all time," he added.

Aside from the municipal, other categories of Belenismo 2024 include schools, businesses, the church, and private communities.

Belenismo, known as the art of making nativity scenes, highlights the importance of religion and also the province's rich culture.

It is also not just limited to Catholics.

Isa Cojuangco-Suntay, organizer of Belenismo and co-founder of the Tarlac Heritage Foundation, shared that the celebration of Belenismo is open to all faiths.

"The Philippines is predominantly a Catholic country. Ang Belenismo naman po hindi namin nililimitahan sa mga Katoliko, we welcome all faiths who want to join. Pagharap po natin sa Belen, alalahanin po natin na Jesus came for all of us," she said.

— CDC, GMA Integrated News