IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay — Zamboanga Sibugay set a Guinness World Record for the longest line of talaba (oyster) shells on Thursday, February 26. 

The record-breaking feat was the highlight of the 25th founding anniversary of Zamboanga Sibugay, featuring a continuous line of 24,222 empty oyster shells stretching along the national highway in the capital town of Ipil. 

Earlier in the day, the provincial government prepared approximately 45 metric tons of freshly harvested oysters, sourced from its coastal municipalities, to showcase the province’s thriving oyster industry. 

“This is not only a source of pride for our province, but a tribute to the livelihood of our people. Talaba is one of the foundations of our local economy,” Zamboanga Sibugay 2nd District Representative Marly Hofer-Hasim said in Bisaya during the program. 

The festival also highlighted the role of coastal communities in sustaining local fisheries production. Recently, the province’s wetland was added to the Ramsar Convention’s list of wetlands of international importance.

“This is our moment to show the world what Sibugay can do when we unite,” Governor Ann Hofer said as she officially launched the Talaba Festival. 

In the evening, a Guinness World Records adjudicator joined via Zoom to confirm that the province had officially set the record. 

“Zamboanga Sibugay has been wanting to get this Guinness distinction for 25 years. We started in 2001, when we were created as a province, and now we finally won,” the governor said after the announcement. 

Local officials hope the global recognition will attract more tourists, open new markets for local seafood products, and generate long-term economic opportunities for fishing communities across Zamboanga Sibugay. – Rappler.com