ROME, Italy – The Philippines will once again try to secure the gold medal in this year’s Artistic Show of Christian cribs in Rome.

Last year, the Philippines’ Christmas Belen was named as the champion in the contest. This year, it will try to defend its title.

With a new style, the artistically decorated Philippine Belen hopes to top other entries from about 100 countries.

An initiative of the Philippine Embassy in Rome and the Alriver Export Corporation made it possible for the Philippines to once again join the event to defend its title.

Rome Trade Representative Marie Gumabon Lami said the organizers of the event hope to impart the real essence of Christmas.

“Ang organizer nito ay napag-isipan nila na masyadong nang i-commercialize na lang ng husto ang Pasko kasi hindi na nila naalaala na ito ay kapanganakan ni Kristo. Kaya naisipan nila na magkaroon ng mostra, not only in the Philippines but all over the world,” Lami.

Lami said the main highlight of the competition is not only about the beauty of the Christmas Belen, but also the message it conveys to the people.

“Ang aming napag-isipan na isang Belen, religious pero nagdadala din ng mensahe ng nature para ma-conserve natin ang nature nang mapayapa din ang mundo dahil ang kapayapaan ng mundo ay kung payapa din ang ating nature,” Lami.

The exhibit will run until January 6, 2010.