Malabon eyes Guinness record for longest noodle line

MANILA, Philippines —  A feast is brewing in Malabon, and it’s not just any ordinary meal.

The city is preparing to set a Guinness World Record for the longest line of noodle bowls, using its signature dish Pancit Malabon.

On March 21 at 1 p.m., the Malabon Sports Complex will be transformed into “a sea of noodle bowls” as the city assembles over 6,000 servings of pancit.

Malabon aims to surpass the current record of 3,988 bowls set by the Jinshi Beef and Rice Noodles Association in Jinshi, Changde, Hunan, China on Dec. 21, 2019.

“This is more than just a record-breaking feat. It is a celebration of the city’s culinary heritage, a tribute to the hardworking local food industry and a testament to the pride of every Malabueño,” the local government said in a letter sent to The STAR.

Beyond the numbers, the event is a showcase of Malabon’s identity as a city deeply tied to its food culture.

Pancit Malabon has been a staple in Filipino celebrations such as birthday parties and feasts.

It is distinguished from other Filipino noodle dishes by its thick rice noodles coated in a savory, seafood-based sauce, often topped with shrimp, squid, crushed chicharon (pork cracklings) and hard-boiled eggs.

The dish takes inspiration from Malabon’s fishing and seafood industry, which has long provided the city with fresh ingredients.

Malabon’s attempt to set a Guinness record is also part of its efforts to establish the city as a top food destination in the Philippines.

“More than setting a world record, we aim to showcase the flavors, history and heart behind Pancit Malabon,” the city government said.

The event is expected to draw chefs, local businesses and food enthusiasts.