Amaia Scapes Capas

Tarlac was previously part of Pampanga and Pangasinan. It was the last territory in Central Luzon to be under the Spanish influence in 1874. The province got its name from a weed known to the locals as “malatarlak,.” (in Spanish, “tarlac”) which can only be found The plant is only present in the Northern region. Tarlac is the haven of distinct Filipino ethnic groups. Kapampangans, Ilocanos, Pangasinenses, and Tagalogs share in the sugar and rice plantations and form the rich history of the province. These ethnic groups are known to live in comfort, so they offer the best when it comes to cuisine. Thus, Tarlac became the Melting Pot of Central Luzon as people from Bulacan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan and Ilocos Region come together to make the best dishes for their family and guests. Besides its cuisine, Tarlac is proud of its agricultural and historical roots. Inuruban Festival held at the end of October celebrates the making of rice cakes. There’s also Matarlak Festival held every January to commemorate the origins of Tarlac as well as its source of economic activity – bamboo plantation, sugar, crops, and other types of farm produce. Regarding history, the Aquino Ancestral House and Capas National Shrine serve as a reminder of people’s way of living. The Ancestral House showcases the architecture and preservation of family ties while Capas National Shrine honors the bravery and commitment of Filipinos to their duty.