𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐑 | '𝐁𝐢𝐲𝐚𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐀𝐔' 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐩

𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐑 | '𝐁𝐢𝐲𝐚𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐀𝐔' 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐩

Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) officially lit its Belen for this year, dubbed as “Biyahe TAU”, on 16 October in a simple ceremony that marked the start of the Belenismo season. The display masterfully reimagines the traditional Christmas narrative, transporting it from a distant Bethlehem stable into the heart of a spirited and joyous Philippine fiesta, creating a profound connection with local culture.

At the very core of the installation sits a colorful jeepney, positioned intentionally adjacent to the Holy Family. This iconic vehicle is the central metaphor, symbolizing a shared national voyage of faith that travels across the diverse islands of the Philippine archipelago, inviting everyone on a collective spiritual journey.

The surrounding scene is a rich tapestry of the nation's artisanal heritage. A sorbetes cart from Laguna evokes sweet childhood memories, while swirling lanterns woven from bamboo honor the famous Bangus Festival of Dagupan. These crafted elements filter the light of the Christmas star through a distinctly Filipino lens, blending tradition with celebration.

Framing the entire nativity is a magnificent arch, bursting with harvest decorations in the style of Lucban's Pahiyas Festival. This structure, adorned with fruits and colorful kiping, powerfully connects the birth of Christ to the deep-seated Filipino value of gratefulness for a bountiful harvest, paying homage to its agrarian roots.

Further grounding the holy site in local symbolism are the translucent Capiz shells that form windows in the stage's base. These traditional panes, long a symbol of the welcoming Filipino home, allow the inner light of the Christmas story to shine outward, demonstrating how the story is embraced within a local context.

This artistic and cultural feat was made possible by a remarkable University-wide collaboration. The effort was led by Infrastructure Development and Land Use and Zoning (IDLUZ) Unit and Institutional Development and Resource Generation (IDRG) Unit who crafted the initial design and led the conceptualization, while the General Services Office (GSO), Business and Auxiliary Services (BAS) Office, and College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) Department of Forestry provided the essential workforce, bamboo frames, and natural materials to bring the vision to life.

Critical support was seamlessly provided by a network of other offices. The Procurement Office managed purchasing, Sociocultural Development Office (SDO) spearheaded monitoring, the Information Unit crafted write-ups, and the Management Information System (MIS) handled the LED board integration, with the Office of the Vice President for Finance and Administration (OVPFA) ensuring operational approvals for a smooth execution.

The installation culminates in a powerful and inviting call to action: “Kaya tara na.” More than just a display, this Belen is an open invitation for every Filipino and Christian to embark on this festive journey together, celebrating the unique cultural vehicle that carries the Christmas spirit to every corner of the nation.

#SmartTAU #GreenandGlobal #Belenismo #Tarlac #SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG17

Article | Information Unit 

Photos | Planning and Development Office