STO. TOMAS – Officials of this municipal government wanted a chapel in Barangay Sto. Nino here, be declared as first in the country to have an altar made up clay also known as ‘terracotta retablo.
They claimed that the altar made of clay is an expression of superior craftsmanship of local folks here using native indigenous product called terracotta or baked clay.
Rodelio Garcia, municipal administrator, said they are optimistic that concerned government agency will soon give due recognition to terracotta retablo in Sto. Nino chapel.
The said clay altar is about 10-meter long and five-meter high with the icons of Virgen de los Remedios and Cristo del Pardon. At the center is the image of the Sto. Nino.
Except for the statues of the saints installed, everything in the main altar including a small columns, walls, candle holders and ornaments are made of clay. The base of the minor altar and lectern also used clay.
It can be noted that, Sto. Tomas town has gained unique distinction through its pottery industry that boast local economy affecting the lives of the local folks.
Earlier, Ronaldo Tiotuico, regional director of the Department of Tourism has confirmed the claim that Sto. Niño has the first clay altar in Pampanga.