Trillanes is the country’s new TATAP prexy

MANILA, November 7, 2011-The governing body of the Table Tennis Association of the Philippines (TATAP) has installed Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV as its new president.

Trillanes’ election was the main highlight of the board meeting where he was named head in acting capacity prior to his election, has been elected by TATAP's board of trustees last October 30, 2011 at the TATAP Office in Malate, Manila.

“My election further confirmed the trust and confidence of the board and members of TATAP. This will serve as an inspiration for us to further strengthen TATAP, support the welfare of our table tennis players and promote the sport all over the country,” Trillanes said, adding that to do that, we have planned to strengthen the national junior program by introducing table tennis at the grassroots level, which we hope to turn into a breeding ground for future champions.

Trillanes said he is also extending his support for the country’s table tennis delegates to the 26th Southeast Asian Games from November 11 to 22 to be held at Jakarta, Indonesia.

In his capacity as President of TATAP, Trillanes said he will pursue numerous programs for the sport closest to his heart, having played table tennis in high school and during his cadet days at the Philippine Military Academy.

“We will stop politicking in this sport and focus on the programs we will set forth for the development of table tennis,” he added.

It can be recalled that the Philippine Olympic Committee last year withheld the recognition of Trillanes as acting president of TATAP when the senator was still in jail.

Together with Trillanes, the newly-elected officers and board of trustees are Jacinto Omila Jr., Chairman; Jose Ortalla, Vice-President; Prof. Oscar Santelices, Secretary; Engr. Eddie Tadea, Treasurer; and Jessica Honorides, Auditor. Others who were elected as board members are Victor Valbuena, Mayor Eduardo Dimacuha and Dario Hernane. (Jason de Asis)

Church-inspired “Belenismo” now an annual tradition in Tarlac

TARLAC CITY, November 6, 2011—Spectacular nativity scenes in various sizes are now on display throughout the whole province of Tarlac as the annual “Belenismo sa Tarlac” competition kicked off on November 4.

An annual tradition that started only four years ago, “Belenismo” aims to promote both the art of Belen-making and the “bayanihan” spirit among the people of Tarlac.

The practice of creating “belens” province-wide took root in 2007 in an effort to bring back the religious and social significance of the nativity as the symbol of Christmas.

Rev. Fr. Alex O. Bautista, head of the Commission for the Cultural Heritage of the Church of Tarlac diocese and Isabel Cojuangco Suntay of Tarlac Heritage Foundation were both responsible in making the “Belenismo” off to good start.

The idea of “Belenismo sa Tarlac” was born with the support of families, together with the diocesan clergy, and the local government.

“Belenismo sa Tarlac” is highlighted with a province-wide contest showcasing the different Belens from schools, business establishments, municipalities, parishes, and government agencies. Belens made of indigenous, and sometimes unusual, materials are proudly displayed in streets, buildings, gardens, and houses. At night, they all come to life as their bright lights are turned on and the beautiful Nativity scene receives everyone’s attention.

The annual competition has not only highlighted the Tarlaqueños’ artisan skills and talents, but also nurtured in them the spirit of a healthy competition in an aim to promote Tarlac as one of the country’s top tourist destinations and declare it as the “Belen Capital of the Philippines”.

The event starts every November when entries are set up and submitted for judging. Selection of winners and awarding of prizes is held every December. The Belens remain on display up to early January.

Tarlac is now reputed as the nation’s Belen capital, just as San Fernando, Pampanga, is known as the country’s “parol” or Christmas lantern capital, according to Dr. Suntay.

“As soon as you enter the provincial boundary and you see Belens along the way, you’ll immediately know that you’re in Tarlac,” she added.

“We, Tarlaqueños, are proud of this. If other provinces want to start its own “Belenismo”, we’ll support and encourage it. The spirit of Christmas is for all,” she further said.

The province of Tarlac is a scenic one and a half hour’s drive from Metro Manila. It has 17 municipalities and one city with more than 1.2 million residents. It is rich in agricultural products and mineral resources. (Fr. Mickey Cardenas)