Peru Claims That The Oldest Living Person Lives in Their Country
Peru claims world's oldest person, Marcelino Abad, 124. His healthy lifestyle and diet may contribute to his longevity.
The Peruvian government claims that the world’s oldest person is residing in their country. Marcelino Abad who hails from the central Peruvian region of Huanuco is 124 years old. If the claims are proved to be true, Marcelino Abad will be the oldest living person in the world. It’ll also make him the oldest ever independently verified human.
Surprisingly, Marcelino Abad was born way back in 1900. One can never say that he is 124 years old. Even at this age, the centenarian is friendly and has a cheerful disposition. Besides this, he enjoys good health.
“Among the tranquility of the flora and fauna of Huanuco, Marcelino Abad Tolentino or 'Mashico' developed a healthy way of life and inner peace, reflected in his good health and friendly personality,” the government said in a statement.
“This allowed him, with resilience and skill, to overcome 12 decades of life and on April 5th he just blew out 124 candles.”
The authorities would help him to apply to the Guinness World Records which would involve independent verification of all his official documents. At present, Guinness World Records recognizes a 111 year old Briton as the oldest living man, a title he holds following the passing of a 114 Venezuelan. Currently, the oldest living woman is 117 years old and the oldest person ever verified lived till the age of 122.
Marcelino was born in a small town of Chaglla. He consumes a diet rich in fruits and eats lamb meat which could be the secret to his longevity.
The Peru government identified him lately. He was given security ID and pension by the authorities. He also chews coca leaves which is a tradition followed by the Andean communities.
Marcelino Abad lives in a residence for senior citizens. They celebrated his 124th birthday on 5 April with a birthday cake and a figurine dedicated to the senior.