<!–
<!–
<!– <!–
<!–
<!–
<!–
A Peruvian farmer has made a play for the title of world’s oldest man, claiming he is 124 years old, just days after British retiree John Tinniswood was declared the official record holder at 111.
Tinniswood, who credits fish and chips for his extraordinary longevity, was confirmed as the world’s oldest man following the death of Venezuelan national Juan Vicente Pérez last week at the age of 114.
However, the Peruvian government is now filing a claim on behalf of a farm worker, who they claim was born in 1900.
Marcelino Abad Tolentino, a native of the central region of Huánuco, lived in isolation until the government identified him in 2019 and provided him with identification and a pension.
The elderly man, known to locals as ‘Mashico’, reportedly celebrated his 124th birthday on April 5, with photographs showing him receiving a huge birthday cake, complete with a figure in his image.
The old man, known to locals as ‘Mashico’, celebrated his 124th birthday on April 5.
John Tinniswood, aged 111 years and 222 days, from Southport, Merseyside, UK, is the oldest living man.
He received cakes and gifts at the Casa Hogar Mis Abuelitos in Cochachinche, where he now resides.
Tolentino, who was born in the small town of Chaglla, said the secret to his advanced age is eating a healthy diet, rich in fruits and lamb.
He also likes to chew coca leaves, a tradition among communities in the Andes.
Tolentino was orphaned when he was seven years old and never went to school.
He lived in rural areas and quickly learned ‘to take advantage of the benefits of nature’, according to a statement from the Peruvian government.
They added: ‘Among the tranquility of the flora and fauna of Huánuco, Marcelino Abad Tolentino – or ‘Mashico’ – developed a healthy way of life and inner peace, reflected in his good health and friendly personality.
‘This allowed him, with resilience and skill, to overcome 12 decades of life and on April 5 he blew out 124 candles.’
Authorities are helping Tolentino apply for the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest man, possibly dethroning Tinniswood.
Marcelino Abad Tolentino, a native of the central region of Huánuco, lived in isolation until the government identified him in 2019.
Abad now lives in a nursing home, where this month for his birthday he enjoyed a special celebration.
The organization is currently studying the offer, but a spokesperson said: “Guinness World Records receives many applications from people claiming to be the oldest living people.”
Verifying the claim would involve a team of experts examining official documents and other evidence to “demonstrate his achievement beyond a doubt.”
If confirmed, Tolentino could also be crowned the oldest person in history, who is currently 122 years old.
The oldest living woman is the Spanish MarÃa Branyas Morera at 117 years old.