MANILA, Philippines - An 18-year-old resident of Zamboanga del Norte in Southern Philippines has been declared the world's smallest man by Guinness World Records."Guinness World Records can officially confirm that Junrey Balawing from the Philippines has been certified as the world's shortest man," the internationally acknowledged reference body for extremes in the natural world and human achievements, said on its website.
- Junrey was listed on the record book Sunday as he turned 18. At a height of 59.9 centimetres, Junrey was shorter by three inches than the former holder of the title, Nepal's Khagendra Thapa Magar.
- Junrey weighed in at five kilograms and has not grown since his first birthday, the website said. He lives with his parents and three younger siblings
- The Filipino blacksmith's son, who stopped growing when he was a toddler, was declared the world's shortest man on Sunday as he celebrated his 18th birthday.
- The news came as Filipinos in the country and around the world celebrated the 113th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.
- Measuring just 59.93 centimetres, or 23.5 inches, Junrey Balawing is the oldest of four siblings - the rest all of normal stature - born in the rural town of Sindangan on southern Mindanao island.
- "Officially he is the world's shortest man," said Craig Glenday, editor-in-chief of the Guinness Book of World Records who measured Balawing in front of cheering relatives and villagers.
A throng of wellwishers, including politicians, witnessed the official measurement then handed him wads of cash which his parents said would go towards the family's meagre savings.After the official announcement, Empag said the family was expected to return to their modest home in the village and celebrate Junrey's birthday. "Noodles and meat have been prepared. We're just happy for him," Empag said.
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