Albay folk to raise anti-smoking awareness by going for world record

Residents in Albay province in Bicol will go for a world record by forming the world’s largest human “No Smoking” sign to raise awareness about the harmful effects of smoking, a radio report said Sunday.

According to radio dzBB, the attempt will be held at the Bicol University football field on June 28.

Albay provincial officials also said the record attempt is timely, as June is International No-Smoking Month, the report added.

Provincial officials likewise hope the activity will also make people aware of the ill effects of smoking on the environment.

A separate report on state-run Philippine Information Agency said at least 10,000 people have confirmed they will take part in the event, which is aiming for 13,000 participants from government institutions, schools and the private sector.

It also quoted Bicol University Physical Development Management Office’s Adrian Graceda as saying the attempt will cover some 5,123 square meters of the football field.

Guinness World Records will allow only a white chalk outline of the no-smoking symbol on the ground before the attempt.

Meanwhile, personnel from the Philippine National Police, Philippine Air Force and Bureau of Fire Protection mapped out crowd control plans.

The PIA said the event is to start at 6 a.m. of June 28 with a fun walk for a “smoke-free Albay.” — BM, GMA News