By: Navalta, Patricia Nicole G.

Tarlac which is situated at the heart of Luzon’s central plains, the city of Tarlac is tied on the northern part of Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija on the east side, Pampanga on the southern part and Zambales on the west side. Today, Tarlac City is fast becoming the center of a bustling economy and classified as the first class city in terms of income generation.

Now, let’s see atleast 5 tourist spots here in Tarlac City!

1. A Relic of the Holy Cross in Monasterio de Tarlac

Monasterio de Tarlac is where the Relic of the Holy Cross can be found. It is rightly placed atop a mountain at San Jose in Tarlac, surrounded by lush greenery, in great contrast to the deathly Calvary which is believed to be where Jesus was crucified. And on this site in the monastery, pilgrims flock to venerate the “one true cross” and to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

2. Capas National Shrine

The historical place of Capas National Shrine is located in barangay O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac. The Capas National Shrine was created to commemorate and reminisce the infamous “Death March” of the Filipino and American Soldiers imprisoned by the Japanese Occupation Forces of WWII. In memory of all American and Filipino soldiers in the Philippine history, a landmark now stands in the province of Tarlac. It is a symbol of all soldiers who endured the 97-kilometer march. It is known as the Capas National Shrine or “Paggunita sa Capas.”

3. The Cement Cross

The Battling Bastards of the Bataan Death March built this replica to remember the many young Americans who gave their lives to protect their country and the Philippines. The original cross was brought to the National Historic Site Andersonville, Georgia, USA, where it is now kept and displayed.

4. Canding Water Falls

Canding waterfall is another natural attraction in the province of Tarlac, situated in Brgy. Maasin town of San Clemente. The place is perfect for trekking adventure and swimming. And if you are looking for an outrageous fun, try to catch some eel, because this is an ideal fishing ground for them.

5. Tarlac Plazuela

Tarlac Plazuela, the silent witness to culture and history. Plazuelas are typically at the heart of Philippine towns and located near or between the town/city hall and the Roman Catholic Church. This strategic positioning of the two institutions rooted from the Spanish regime, signifying the union of the government and the Church.
Our town square was visited by the most prominent heroes of our nation, such as our National Hero, Jose Rizal and the President of the Revolutionary Republic, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo. Antonio Luna, Commander of the Philippine Revolutionary Army, Apolinario Mabini, the Brains of the Katipunan, Carlos P. Romulo, Philippine Diplomat and President of the UN General Assembly and Benigno Aquino, Jr., Filipino Martyr and patriot had set foot at the plazuela—the silent witness to history.