UST sets Guinness world record

The University of Santo Tomas (UST has officially made history by setting a world record for the world’s largest human cross on Ash Wednesday, March 9.

The Philippine Catholic University said Guinness World Records recognized the 13,266 participants who formed the human cross inside the UST campus in Manila.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines said the official Guinness certificate confirming the title was sent to UST on Aug. 10.

“We are pleased to confirm that you have successfully set the new Guinness World Records title for ‘Largest Human Cross.’ Guinness World Records congratulates you on your achievement," Guinness said in its letter dated Aug. 8, according to the CBCP website.

The official announcement is posted on the Guinness website under “Amazing Feats" and “Mass Participation" categories.

In the March 9 event, students, faculty, and university employees dressed in black and white and with crosses on their foreheads formed a human cross and stood still in prayerful silence for 15 minutes.

According to CBCP, Norway previously held the record for the world’s largest human cross with 935 participants at the Oslo Opera House in May 2010.