lyf, the vibrant and community-driven co-living brand under The Ascott Limited, marks a significant milestone in the Philippines this 2024 with two flourishing residences—lyf Cebu and lyf Malate. As August draws to a close, both properties are set to host back-to-back celebrations that not only elevate the brand’s presence but also aim to secure two prestigious Guinness World Records titles. These two-day festivities promise to unite communities while spotlighting Cebu’s unique marine life and honoring the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage.
Swim with thresher sharks at lyf Cebu City
On August 29th, lyf Cebu will transform its residence into an artistic haven, inviting the community to participate in a creative and environmentally-conscious endeavor. The event will feature a collaborative display of origami Thresher Sharks, crafted from recycled newspapers, magazines, and other used paper materials. This installation, set against the backdrop of inflatable pools, allows guests to “swim with the sharks” while appreciating this intricate paper collage.
The Pelagic Thresher Shark (Alopias Pelagius), a species native to the waters around Cebu, particularly Malapascua Island, is celebrated through this initiative. Known for their unique appearance and non-aggressive nature, these sharks are vital to the local marine ecosystem. However, their survival is threatened by overfishing and habitat degradation, as noted by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
In partnership with Save the Philippine Seas, lyf Cebu’s display underscores its commitment to sustainability and marine conservation. The event supports the Sustainable Businesses for Marine Conservation (SuBMarine) program, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these oceanic treasures.
Sail under the stars at lyf Malate
Meanwhile, on August 30th, lyf Malate in Manila will host an event that pays homage to Filipino heritage. Guests are invited to “light up” the residence with a dazzling array of origami stars, crafted from sustainable materials. These stars will be displayed alongside a traditional Balangay boat, symbolizing the Philippines’ role in the historic galleon trade that connected Europe, Asia, and the Americas from 1565 to 1815.
This event not only celebrates the country’s rich history but also encourages guests to “sail under the stars,” enjoying the vibrant atmosphere as lyf Malate reflects on its journey and the communities it has nurtured. “We’re thrilled to be celebrating such a momentous occasion with the brilliant and diverse community of both lyf properties,” said Rey Vergel Mulat, Residence Manager of lyf Cebu City. “It’s an amazing privilege to pioneer the concept of co-living spaces in the Philippines, and we only have more in store for everyone in the future, so be sure to keep an eye out for what’s to come.”
Breaking two world records
This year, both lyf Cebu and lyf Malate have reached out to the esteemed Guinness World Records, the world’s leading authority in chronicling and witnessing the world’s greatest superlatives, in an ambitious commitment to breaking ceilings, to set and claim new world records titles in a series of events for the ages. Those who would be a part of the momentous occasion on August 29, 2024, will witness the ephemeral exhibit of origami Thresher Sharks in lyf Cebu City; the papercraft art piece aims to display an impressive 20,000 origami sharks to net them the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the “Largest Display of Origami Sharks,” while the festivities will continue back in lyf Malate on August 30, 2024, as they attempt to surpass the record of Nova Mall Macau’s GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for having the “Largest Display of Origami Stars,” by looking to amass a total of 100,000 origami stars. The highly anticipated event is sure to be a rollercoaster of emotions as the lyf brand is eager to bring home not one but two coveted world record titles.
As exciting as the accolades are, it would not be a complete lyf story without highlighting the thriving communities behind the two properties. “This amazing feat will by no means be some overnight miracle.” Said Joyce Agsaway, the Director of Operational Excellence for The Ascott Limited, “In fact, this award won’t solely belong to the properties. This herculean effort would only be possible with the amazing community fostered not only within the company but also by the amazing guests that we are delighted to have found a home with us in lyf.”
lyf Malate and lyf Cebu invite everyone to join in the celebrations on August 29th in Cebu and August 30th in Manila. Be part of history as lyf Cebu and lyf Malate make their mark on the world stage.
