For most sky lanterns flown: Phl breaks Romania's Guinness record

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The Philippines has entered in the Guinness Book of World Records for releasing simultaneously a total of 15,185 sky lanterns in a single event at the University of the Philippines-Visayas, Miag-ao Campus on Friday, breaking Romania's record of 12,470 lanterns released last year.

Seyda Subasi-Gemici, adjudication and official representative of Guinness Book of World Records, officially announced the feat done, within 10 minutes of counting, by 10,000 volunteers who released 15,185 out of 15,687 lanterns displayed.

Gemici told The Freeman she arrived in Iloilo from Turkey to personally witness and observe that all guidelines set by the Guinness Book of World Records were properly observed. "This is officially amazing", she said.

Ver Pawithai Vajiravijjo, head of Youth Recruitment of the International Affairs Department of Wal Phrz Dhammakaya in Thailand, said he arrived in Iloilo last January to teach meditation and to help organize the event. He said his 50-member group brought the lanterns here.

Vajiravijjo, a Buddhist monk, added they have been supplying sky lanterns in Mongolia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines.

He also said that he is happy that through them, the Philippines had put its name to the world map and at the same time promote peace through inner peace. "This is an indication that Buddhist and Filipino would have continuing harmonious relationship," he said.

Jaro Archbishop, Most Rev. Angel Lagdameo was also present in the historic event, which had gathered more than 20,000 spectators including the lantern volunteers.  (FREEMAN)