By Lee Bullen & Rom Preston-Ellis
A Peruvian farmer could be the world's oldest man after claiming to celebrate his 124th birthday.
He is 13 years older than the current British record holder, 111-year-old John Tinniswood. Tinniswood was confirmed as the world's oldest man following the death of Venezuelan national Juan Vicente Perez last week at the age of 114. However, the Peruvian government is now making a claim on behalf of an agricultural worker who was born in 1900.
Marcelino Abad Tolentino, who comes from the central region of Huanuco, lived off the grid until the government identified him in 2019 and provided him with ID and a pension. The old man, known to locals as 'Mashico' reportedly celebrated his 124th birthday on April 5.
He was treated to a special cake and gifts at the Casa Hogar Mis Abuelitos care home in Cochachinche, where he now resides. Tolentino, who was born in the small town of Chaglla, said the secret to his ripe old age is eating a healthy diet, rich in fruits and lamb meat. He also likes to chew on 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 "how to take advantage of the benefits of nature", according to a Peruvian government statement. They added: "Among the tranquillity 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. This allowed him, with resilience and skill, to overcome 12 decades of life and on 5 April he blew out 124 candles."
The authorities are helping Tolentino apply for the Guinness World Record as the world's oldest man, possibly dethroning Tinniswood. The organisation is currently looking into the bid. If confirmed, Tolentino could also be crowned the oldest person ever, which currently stands at 122. The oldest living woman is Spaniard Maria Branyas Morera at 117 years of age.
