Lakbay Norte: Drive-through church, Ube Pizza, more holiday stops in Tarlac

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December 16, 2025 | 1:10pm

MANILA, Philippines — From historical and religious landmarks to fun-filled attractions, Tarlac proves it is more than just a stopover, with plenty to add to your holiday itinerary.

Whether it is festive menu items like ube pizza or a unique "drive-through" church ideal for Simbang Gabi, Tarlac offers stops well-suited for family vacations and road trip with friends.

NLEX Corp. recently held a Lakbay Norte tour, where Philstar.com was able to discover the following destinations to visit on your next trip to Tarlac.

St. Josemaria Escriva Parish

Located in Gerona, Tarlac, the St. Josemaria Escriva Parish is said to be the first church in Asia to offer a "drive-through" view of the Blessed Sacrament, providing a unique visit for Simbang Gabi.

Built in 2013, this feature was designed to allow the elderly and the sick to pray without leaving their vehicles. The parish is also noted as the first in Asia dedicated to St. Josemaria Escriva, the Patron Saint of Ordinary People.

Kart City

Kart City offers a range of activities ideal for bonding with family or friends, for both the young and young at heart.

From a thrilling drive on the race track through go-karting to friendly billiards and bowling competitions, this stop in Tarlac City is meant to fill your day with fun.

After these adrenaline-pumping activities, visitors can refuel with a no-frills menu with items like thin-crust pizzas and mini tacos ideal for groups.

Canarem Lake Bird Sanctuary

For those looking to slow down after a busy year, Canarem Lake Bird Sanctuary offers a peaceful scenery, away from the noise of the city.

Located in Victoria, Tarlac, both birdwatchers and nature lovers can appreciate one of the country’s most important wetlands, which hosts numerous species of resident and migratory birds.

Cafe Josefina

Cafe Josefina is a must-visit for those craving festive flavors, with its standout item Imang Aping’s Ale Ube Pizza perfect for the holiday season.

With a lakeside view and a wide variety of options like Beef Salpicao and the Josefina Salad, this restaurant in Capas offers a scenic dining experience.

Cafe Sou

From unique drinks like its banana-flavored "Island Coffee" for a quick stopover to breakfast favorites like Beef Tapa, Cafe Sou has the range for travelers.

This cafe in Bamban also serves Filipino classics like Crispy Pork Kare-Kare.

Feliz Restaurant & Cafe

Offering generous servings, Feliz Restaurant & Cafe is perfect for celebrating with family or friends.

From Filipino classics like Pancit Palabok to pasta dishes like Seafood Aglio Lio, this restaurant in Pura can cater to different tastes.

What to look out for

WWII Japanese Tunnel. A World War II historical site in Bamban, Tarlac is set to open next year.

This tunnel once served as the headquarters of the Imperial Japanese Naval Air Fleet, used by staff as shelter whenever American naval and army fighters and bombers passed through the area.

Capas Train Station. While it has no exact opening date yet, a historical marker at the Capas Train Station commemorates the Bataan Death March during World War II.

The Sto. Domingo Death March Marker served as the "disembarkation" point where 60,000 Filipino soldiers were unloaded from cramped, closed boxcars, signaling the start of the march's second phase.

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