Philippines breaks Guinness World Record

MANILA, Philippines – On November 29, Glorietta Mall launched their new Palm Drive wing with a daunting task: to break the Guinness World Record for the most people walking on a catwalk.

The number to beat was 1,967 models in the record held by Istanbul, Turkey.

By the time the Rappler team arrived at Glorietta at 3pm, everything was in full swing: it was surreal to see models walking everywhere — literally. Two holding areas were set up: one at the old Glorietta Activity Center and another at the new wing’s lobby.

The event started at around 6pm. Bianca Gonzales and Billy Crawford hosted the show. The Click Five frontman Kyle Patrick and Pinoy rockstar Bamboo performed.

Kirstie Bennett of the Guinness Book of World Records was in attendance to make sure that the models not only break the record in terms of quantity but also in quality: they have to walk professionally with their head held high and in coordination with the music.

Five runways saw models walking 5 at a time; Ayala Malls merchants provided the clothes. Models professional and aspiring of all age groups were there; apart from the height, it was hard to tell the pros apart from the aspiring ones — everyone’s energy and confidence level were high.

The event coined “The New Glorietta Vibe” held true to its name, because the vibe was festive and friendly; no one was exhausted or grumpy even if it had been a long day. Everyone we spoke to told us how happy they were to be part of the world record attempt, no matter what the outcome would be.

And so when Bennett announced that — despite the disqualification of 47 models — the Philippines broke the record, the entire stage area and inside the new wing’s lobby where some guests where watching the event through a big LED screen erupted into cheers.

All the hard work everyone put in was validated and, yes, it was finally over. The record was broken.

Check out Rappler’s photos:

– Rappler.com