Beautiful display of over 2,000 solar lamps sends message of hope and unity

Published 17 July 2025
Benedict Sison, chief executive and country head of Sun Life Philippines, holding the Guinness World Records official certificate

A beautiful display of nearly 3,000 solar lamps sent a powerful message as it broke the record for the largest display of solar powered lamps.

This attempt was headed by the life insurance company Sun Life, who teamed up with Liter of Light, a global organization which provides sustainable light options for those in need, and the National Museum of the Philippines, which provided the "canvas" for this large-scale display.

As Sun Life marks its 130th anniversary in the Philippines - the first life insurance company to serve the Filipinos - they wanted to create something impactful and lasting.

Aerial view of the largest display of solar powered lamps

Therefore, they wanted to create a symbol of hope and unity that would leave a lasting impact on their communities.

Lamps for the largest solar lamp display being assembled

Each of the lamps were made by hand with extensive help from a local pottery advocate. Readily available and local materials were used in making of the base of the lamp.

The lamps were then assembled by Sun Life employees, advisors, volunteers, and communities.

Largest solar lamp display beings set up

And the result? A beautiful art installation with a symbol of light, unity, and hope. The sun symbolizes that light has the power to transform lives. And the handshake stands for the transformative power of collective action.

While coordinating thousands of volunteers and working around the changing weather conditions brought some challenges, teams and partners worked together with a shared purpose to make the project successful.

Top aerial view of the largest solar lamp display

The installation was open to the public from 2 to 9 July 2025. Following the display, all the solar lamps will be donated to underserved communities in Talim Island and Region IV-A.

The Circle of Light initiative is part of Sun Life’s broader commitment to sustainability, financial inclusion, and nation-building, aligning with its mission to help Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.